Black gram, also known as urad bean, is a popular crop grown in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It is a type of legume that belongs to the family Fabaceae. The crop is used in various cuisines and is a popular source of protein for vegetarians.
There are many varieties of black gram that are grown across different regions. The choice of variety depends on various factors such as climatic conditions, soil type, and certain genetic traits. In this article, we will discuss some of the most popular varieties of black gram.
1. TAU-1
TAU-1 is a high-yielding variety of black gram that was developed by the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. It is highly resistant to pests and diseases and is suitable for cultivation in both irrigated and rainfed areas. The crop matures in 75-80 days and has an average yield of 1,000-1,200 kg per hectare.
2. T-9
T-9 is a variety of black gram that was developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. It is tolerant to drought and is suitable for cultivation in areas with low rainfall. The crop has an average yield of 800-1,000 kg per hectare and matures in 70-75 days.
3. Pusa-1
Pusa-1 is a variety of black gram that was developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute. It is an early-maturing variety and can be harvested in 60-65 days. The crop has an average yield of 800-1,000 kg per hectare and is suitable for cultivation in both irrigated and rainfed areas.
4. CO-3
CO-3 is a variety of black gram that was developed by the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. It is a high-yielding variety that is resistant to pests and diseases. The crop matures in 70-75 days and has an average yield of 1,000-1,200 kg per hectare.
5. LBG-17
LBG-17 is a variety of black gram that was developed by the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore. It is suitable for cultivation in areas with low rainfall and is tolerant to drought. The crop matures in 75-80 days and has an average yield of 800-1,000 kg per hectare.
In conclusion, black gram is an important crop in South Asian countries, and there are many varieties to choose from depending on the specific requirements of the farmer. These varieties offer a range of benefits such as high yield, resistance to pests and diseases, and tolerance to drought conditions. Farmers can choose the appropriate variety based on their geographic location, soil type, and local weather conditions.