Onion cultivation by broadcast method: A detailed guide
Onion cultivation is an important agricultural activity in India, and broadcast method is an effective method. In this method, seeds are sown evenly in the field by broadcasting them, which saves time and labour. Below is a step-by-step process of onion cultivation by broadcast method:
1. Field Preparation
- Soil Selection - Loamy or sandy loam soil is suitable for onion cultivation, which has
good drainage system and pH value is between 6.0 to 7.5.
- *Field Ploughing - Plough the field 2-3 times well so that the soil becomes friable. After this, level the field
The amount of fertilizers recommended for onion cultivation can be 60:24:24 kg (nitrogen: phosphorus: potassium) per acre.
The quantity, type and time of use of fertilizers are as follows:
Under organic manure, the amount of FYM (cow dung manure) is 10 tonnes per acre, which is used at the time of last ploughing. For nitrogen, use urea at the rate of 7 kg per bigha. It can be given twice for basal (at the time of transplantation) and top dressing (20-25 days after transplantation). For phosphorus, the amount of single super phosphate (SSP) is 20 kg per bigha, which is also used in basal (at the time of transplantation). For potassium, the amount of muriate of potash (MOP) is 20 kg, which is given in basal (at the time of transplantation). Finally, Anshul Vegetable Special is used for micronutrients, the amount of which is 2.5 grams per liter of water. It is used as a spray at least 3 times at an interval of 20 days after 20-25 days of germination
2. Seed Sowing
- Seed Quantity - At least 4 kg of onion seeds are required for one bigha field.
- Method of sowing - Sprinkle the seeds evenly in the field. Make sure that the seeds do not go too deep, as this may affect germination.
- Time - The suitable time for sowing onion is Rabi season (October-November when the seed quantity is 3 to 4 kg) or Kharif season (June-July when the seed quantity should be between 4 to 6 kg), depending on the region and climate.
3. Construction of beds
- After sowing, prepare beds in the field with the help of a tractor. Beds are usually made 1-1.5 m wide and 15-20 cm high.
- Make drains between the beds, which will help in irrigation and water drainage.
4. Irrigation system
- Rain Pipe - Install rain pipe in the beds, which is useful for drip or sprinkler irrigation.
-Irrigation time
- First irrigation should be done on the third day after sowing.
- Thereafter, irrigation should be done every 8-10 days, especially in the first 30-40 days.
- Maintain soil moisture during crop growth, but avoid waterlogging.
5. Weed control
- Weeds can harm the onion crop, so their control is necessary.
- Spray herbicide (such as Agile) 15-20 days after sowing. This controls weeds effectively.
6. Pest and disease management
- Fungicides and insecticides - Spray fungicides (such as mancozeb) and insecticides (such as imidacloprid) every 15 days.
- Keep an eye on major diseases like purple blotch and downy mildew. Among pests, beware of thrips and onion fly.
- Spray in the morning or evening, so that the effect of the medicine is more.
7. Crop care
- Inspect the field regularly and keep an eye on the growth of the plants.
- If the plants are turning yellow, then lightly spray nitrogen-rich fertilizer (such as urea).
- The crop is usually harvested in 90-120 days, when the leaves start turning yellow and the bulb is fully developed
8. Harvesting and Storage
- Harvest the onions when the leaves start drying and the upper part of the bulb becomes thin.
- After harvesting, dry the onions in the field for 7-10 days.
- Keep the onions in a dry, ventilated and shady place for storage.
Advantages
- Time saving - In the sprinkling method, it takes less time to sow the seeds.
- Low cost - Labor cost is less as compared to the planting method.
- Production - With proper care, up to 80-100 quintals of onion can be obtained per bigha.
Precautions
- The quality of the seed should be good.
- Avoid excessive irrigation, as it may cause the bulbs to rot.
- Use pesticides and weedicides in the right quantity and with the advice of an expert.
Thus, onion cultivation by sprinkling method is a simple and effective method, which can give good production with proper management. This method is especially useful for small and medium farmers. If you are planning to cultivate with this method, consult local agricultural experts and plan according to the weather.
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