Red Gram : Transplantation Improves Red Gram Production in Tamil Nadu

In Karur district of Tamil Nadu state cultivation of red gram by transplantation method has gained momentum. As per the new method, farmers raise red gram nurseries. It requires just one or two seeds for raising seedling in a polythene cover. The seedlings are then transplanted on field after 20 to 25 days. The crop, after 30 to 35 days old, should be nipped so as to multiply its branches.

Red gram transplantation method is a better, convenient, high yield, and cost-effective than the traditional method of cultivation.

Traditional method was requiring 12-15 kg seeds where as new method requires just 2 kg of seeds on a hectare of land. Since the transplantation was done by giving sufficient space between saplings, the crops grow healthy. It reduces the chances of pest attack too.

Agricultural officials said red gram had been raised on 300 hectares under the new method in Thanthoni block in the district alone. If the red gram cultivation is continued with new method, there is a possibility of doubling the red gram area coverage within a few years.

Source: http://www.thehindu.com