Grow Urad across different seasons, An Explanatory guide!
Urad, widely known as Black gram or Vigna mungo, is a highly nutritious pulse grown in different parts of the world and specially in South Asia. It is an irreplaceable part of Indian cuisine, used to prepare dishes like dal, idli, dosa and papad. Urad is not only rich in protein, but it also plays a major role in crop rotation, improving soil fertility by fixing nitrogen levels. The cultivation of Urad in various seasons results in different harvests. In this blog, we’ll explore how to grow urad in different seasons by adopting best practices to get the best results.
Producing Urad in Different seasons -
- Monsoon Season (Kharif Season)
The Kharif season which comes with the monsoon (June to September), is the most common time for urad cultivation in many parts of the world. Sufficient rainfall and humid conditions along with plenty of moisture creates an ideal situation for its growth.
The sowing should start in between June to July, depending on the rainfall that particular year is receiving. The natural rainfall reduces the dependency on artificial irrigation for production.
Challenges and its solution during this season:
Excessive rainfall can lead to waterlogging, which can destroy the crop. Fungal diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot are also common during this season. Proper drainage system can save the fields from waterlogging. Use Disease-resistant varieties of seeds and apply fungicides and pesticides if necessary. Intercropping this crop with maize or sorghum can also be beneficial.
- Winter Season (Rabi Season) -
Urad can also be grown during the Rabi season (October to March) in regions with mild and less-harsh winters and adequate irrigation facilities. The best time to sow seeds in this season is October to November. The biggest advantage of producing urad in rabi season is lesser risk of pest infestations in cooler temperatures.
Challenges and its solutions during this season:
Heavy frost, chilled winds and cold waves can destroy the crop. Artificial irrigation is mandatory because of inadequate rainfall in winters. Choose early-maturing varieties to avoid frost damage and provide regular water to balance the soil moisture.
- Summer Season (Zaid Season) -
In some regions, urad is cultivated during the Zaid season (March to June), especially in areas with access to irrigation. The sowing time of this season is between March to April. This season comes with an advantage, warm temperatures promote rapid growth, and the crop can be harvested before the monsoon arrives.
Challenges and its solution during this season:
High temperatures and water scarcity can stress the crop. Pests like whiteflies and aphids are active during this season. Using drought-tolerant varieties and an adequate irrigation system can save the crop. Use pesticides, neem oil sprays and biological controls to prevent pests.
Urad is a versatile crop that can be grown in different seasons with proper planning and care. Whether you choose to cultivate it during the Kharif, Rabi, or Zaid season, understanding the specific requirements and challenges of each period is key to achieving a successful harvest. By following best practices and adapting to seasonal conditions, farmers can maximize yields and contribute to the sustainable production of this valuable pulse crop.
