Agro-Climatic
- Season: Rabi (Oct–Nov); mild kharif
- Temperature: 20–25°C optimum
- Rainfall: 400–600 mm annually
- Soil: Well-drained loam to sandy loam, pH 6.5–8.0
Seed & Sowing
- Seed Rate: 12–15 kg/Acre (leafy)
- Row to Row: 30 cm
- Plant to Plant: 10 cm
- Sowing Depth: 2–3 cm
- Method: Line sowing for better interculture and yield
Irrigation
- First irrigation: Immediately after sowing
- Subsequent: At 10–15 day intervals depending on soil moisture
Harvesting & Yield
- For leaves: 30–40 days after sowing
- Average Yield: 80–100 quintals/ha (fresh leaves), varies by crop management, climate & season
Land Preparation
- One deep ploughing followed by 2–3 harrowings.
- Ensure fine tilth and proper drainage.
Manure & Fertilizer Application
Apply well-decomposed FYM @ 10–12 t/ha before final land preparation.
| Nutrient | Recommended Dose (kg/ha) | Source & Stage |
|---|---|---|
| Nitrogen (N) | 40–50 | Half at sowing, half at 30 DAS |
| Phosphorus (P₂O₅) | 40 | Basal application |
| Potassium (K₂O) | 20 | Basal application |
Adjust based on soil test results.
Weed Management
- Two hand weedings at 20 and 40 days after sowing (DAS).
- Pre-emergence application of Pendimethalin @ 1.0 kg a.i./ha may be used for effective weed control.
Plant Protection
Common Pests
- Aphids: Spray Imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 0.3 ml/L water
- Caterpillars: Neem oil @ 2% or Emamectin Benzoate @ 0.4 g/L water
Common Diseases
- Powdery mildew: Sulphur dust @ 25 kg/ha or Wettable sulphur @ 2 g/L
- Stem gall / Wilt: Use disease-free certified seeds and rotate crops with cereals
Disclaimer:
The information given in this leaflet is based on the findings of the company's research station farms at
Murthal and other places. However, crops and yield may be adversely affected due to soil type, unfavorable
climatic conditions, weather, inadequate/poor crop management, diseases and disease attack. Crop management
is beyond our control, so the farmer is completely responsible for the yield. To get maximum yield, we
recommend sowing seeds at the right time and adopting suitable agricultural management practices.