Pea Cultivation: A Detailed Article

 

Pea Cultivation: A Detailed Article

Pea (Pisum sativum) is a popular and nutritious crop, known worldwide for its food utility and agricultural importance. In India, peas are mainly cultivated as a winter crop, as it grows well in cool climate. Peas are not only tasty but also a rich source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. In this article, we will discuss in detail the various aspects of pea cultivation, such as climate, soil, sowing, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting.

Importance of Pea Farming

Pea farming is not only important for food security, but it is also economically beneficial for farmers. Pea crop is used as a vegetable in fresh form, as a dry grain, and in canned or frozen form. Apart from this, pea crop also helps in increasing the fertility of the soil, as it is a legume crop that fixes atmospheric nitrogen in the soil. This nitrogen is beneficial for other crops, making pea farming an important role in the crop rotation.

Climate and Soil

Cool and moist climate is suitable for pea cultivation. The ideal temperature is between 10 to 25 degrees Celsius. Extreme heat or cold can affect the growth of peas. In India, pea cultivation is mainly done between October to March, as it has favorable temperature and moisture levels.

In terms of soil, loamy soil is most suitable for pea cultivation, which has a good drainage system. The pH value of the soil should be between 6.0 to 7.5. If the soil is acidic, the pH can be balanced by adding lime. Peas should not be cultivated in heavy clay or waterlogged soil, as this may cause root rot.

Pea Varieties

There are many improved varieties of peas available in India, suitable for different climates and soils. Some of the popular varieties are as follows:

Early Varieties: Arkel, Bonneville, and Early Badge. These varieties mature early and give good yield in a short time.

Medium Duration Varieties: Punjab 88, JM-1, and Lincoln. These varieties mature in medium time and give good quality beans.

Late Maturing Varieties: Azad P-1, Pant Matar-5. These varieties mature late and give yield for a long time.

Farmers should select the appropriate variety based on their regional climate and market demand.

Field Preparation

It is necessary to prepare the field well for pea cultivation. First, plow the field deeply so that the soil becomes friable. After this, do light plowing 2-3 times and level the field. There should be proper drainage system in the field, so that there is no waterlogging during rain or irrigation.

Organic manures such as farmyard manure (10-15 tons per hectare) or vermicompost should be added to the field. Chemical fertilizers should be used in appropriate quantities of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potash. Generally, 20-30 kg nitrogen, 50-60 kg phosphorus, and 40-50 kg potash are required per hectare.

Sowing

The sowing time of peas may vary according to the region. In North India, peas are sown from mid-October to the first week of November. In South India, where winters are mild, sowing can be done in November to December.

The quantity of seed for sowing should be 80-100 kg per hectare. The seeds should be treated with Rhizobium bacteria before sowing, so that the process of nitrogen fixation is improved. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 4-5 cm, and a distance of 30-45 cm should be kept between the rows.

Irrigation

Pea crop requires regular and balanced irrigation. The first irrigation should be done immediately after sowing. Thereafter, special attention should be paid to flowering and pod formation, as water shortage at these stages can affect crop quality and yield. Generally 3-4 irrigations at an interval of 10-15 days are sufficient. Using drip irrigation system saves water and improves yield.

Weed Control

Weed control is very important in pea crop, as weeds can absorb plant nutrients and water. Do the first weeding 20-25 days after sowing. Herbicides, such as pendimethalin (1-1.5 kg per hectare), can be used immediately after sowing. In organic farming, it is better to remove weeds manually.

Pest and Disease Control

Several pests and diseases can affect pea crop. Following are some of the major pests and diseases:

Pests:

Aphids: These small insects suck the sap of the plants, causing the leaves to wilt. Use neem oil or imidacloprid for control.

Pod borer: This pest damages the pods. Spray insecticides like spinosad or quinalphos.

Leaf miner: It makes tunnels in the leaves. Remove and destroy the affected leaves and use suitable insecticides.

Diseases:

Powdery mildew: This disease appears on leaves as white powdery coating. Use sulphur-based fungicides.

Root rot: It causes rotting of the roots. Proper drainage and use of Trichoderma controls the disease.

Wilt: It is caused by Fusarium fungus. It can be prevented by selecting disease-resistant varieties and seed treatment.

If your peas have a problem of caterpillars and fungus in large numbers, then you can use the medicines given in the photo below

Note – Before using these medicines, consult the Gram Sevak or Agriculture Officer of your area.

Harvesting and Yield

Pea crop is usually ready for harvesting 60-90 days after sowing. For fresh peas, the pods are plucked when they are green and tender. For dry peas, the pods are left till they are fully ripe and dry. Harvesting should be done in the morning so that the pods remain fresh.
Pea yield depends on the variety, soil fertility, and cultivation practices. On an average, the yield of fresh peas can be 8-12 tonnes per hectare and the yield of dry peas can be 2-3 tonnes per hectare.

Storage and Marketing

Fresh peas should be stored in a cool and shady place so that their freshness is maintained. For canning or freezing, peas are immediately sent to the processing units. Store dry peas in a moisture-free and ventilated place.
Peas are in demand in the market throughout the year, especially in urban areas. Farmers can sell their produce through local mandis, vegetable markets, or processing units.

Conclusion

Pea farming is a profitable and environmentally friendly agricultural activity. With proper climate, soil management, and pest-disease control, farmers can get good yield. This crop not only provides economic benefits but also contributes to increasing soil fertility. Pea farming can be made more profitable by adopting modern techniques, such as drip irrigation and organic farming.
Farmers should take advantage of the latest technologies and government schemes to get maximum benefits from pea farming. Pea farming not only helps in increasing the income of farmers, but it also contributes significantly in the field of food security and nutrition.