Sun hemp, also known as bhuraa, is a versatile plant that has many uses, including as a green manure crop, for weed suppression, and as a source of fiber. If you’re interested in growing sun hemp, it’s important to know about the optimal sowing season, seed rate, spacing, and harvest information to maximize your yield.
Sowing season:
The ideal time to sow sun hemp is between May and August, depending on your location. In hotter regions, it can be grown year-round. However, it’s important to avoid sowing during the monsoon season as it can lead to waterlogging and poor growth.
Seed rate:
The recommended seed rate for sun hemp is 20-30 kg per hectare. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 4-5 cm in well-prepared soil. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Spacing:
Sun hemp should be planted at a spacing of 30-45 cm between rows and 10-15 cm between plants. This ensures that each plant has adequate space to grow and access to sunlight.
Harvest:
Sun hemp can be harvested after 60-90 days, depending on the purpose of the crop. If you’re growing it for green manure, harvest it before it starts to flower. This is when the plant is most nutritious and has the highest nitrogen content. If you’re growing it for fiber, wait until the plant has matured and the fibers are fully developed.
Yield:
The yield of sun hemp can vary depending on factors like soil quality, climate, and planting practices. On average, you can expect to harvest around 2-3 tons of dry matter per hectare when grown for green manure. If you’re growing it for fiber, you can expect a yield of around 1 ton per hectare.
Overall, sun hemp is a valuable crop that can benefit farmers in many ways. By following the recommended sowing season, seed rate, spacing, and harvest information, you can maximize your yield and reap the benefits of this versatile plant.