Mustard Cultivation in Rajasthan - Improved Varieties, Sowing Time, Seed Rate, Temperature, and Necessary Precautions (2025 Guide)

Rajasthan, a major agricultural state in India, is known for its "pure gold." This crop not only plays a vital role in oilseed production but also serves as a major source of income for farmers. Rajasthan is the leading state in mustard production in the country, accounting for a large portion of the total. This major Rabi season crop is grown in loamy, sandy loam, or black soil, with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5 considered ideal. If you are planning to cultivate mustard in Rajasthan, this article will provide you with detailed information. We will discuss improved varieties, seed rates, sowing methods, seed treatment, timing, temperature requirements, and precautions. This information is based on the Rajasthan Agriculture Department, ICAR, and other reliable sources, updated for 2025. Let's learn how you can increase your yield and earn better profits.

Importance of Mustard Cultivation in Rajasthan

Rajasthan's dry climate is conducive to mustard cultivation, with this crop covering approximately 30% of the state's land area. Mustard production is prominent in most districts of the state, such as Ganganagar, Hanumangarh, Alwar, and Bharatpur. Mustard is not only useful for oil production, but its residue also serves as animal fodder. By 2025, due to climate change, farmers should focus on water-resistant and high-yielding varieties. Mustard cultivation can yield 20-30 quintals per hectare, which fetches good prices in the market. However, without proper management, yields can be affected, so the use of modern techniques is essential.

Improved Mustard Varieties for Rajasthan

Climate, irrigation availability (irrigated or rainfed), and sowing time (timely or delayed) are important considerations when choosing mustard varieties in Rajasthan. These varieties are known for high yields, disease resistance, and good oil content. ICAR-DRMR (Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research) has recently developed several new varieties, such as Bharat Mustard-7 and Bharat Mustard-8, which are robust against diseases.

Timely sown varieties for irrigated areas

RH-0749-- This variety matures in 150-156 days and yields 24-28 quintals per hectare. The oil content is 39-40%, making it ideal for oil production. It is resistant to white rust.

RGN-73-- Maturates in 120-151 days, yields 17-22 quintals/hectare. Oil content is 34-44%. This variety is popular in the northern districts of Rajasthan.

DRMRIJ-31 (Giriraj) -- Developed by DRMR, this variety is also suitable for delayed sowing and can tolerate high temperatures.

Timely Sowing Varieties for Rainfed Areas

RGN-298 -- Maturing in 143 days, this variety yields 5-6 quintals/bigha in rainfed areas. Oil content is 40%. It is drought tolerant.

RGN-229 -- Maturing in 146 days, yielding 5-6 quintals/bigha, oil content is 37.8-42.1%. Effective in western parts of Rajasthan.

Pioneer 45 S 46--According to farmers, this hybrid variety performs well even in rainfed areas and is the top-rated variety in 2025.

Late Sowing Varieties for Irrigated Areas

RGN-236 -- Maturing in 127 days, yielding 4-5 quintals/bigha, oil content is 38.4-40.1%.

RGN-145-- 120-141 days to maturity, yield 14-17 quintals/hectare, oil content ~37.5%.

RH-725 and DRMR 2017-15 (Radhika)--These new varieties have proven excellent in cluster frontline demonstrations, especially in Rajasthan. Radhika is known for its high yield and disease resistance.

Other improved varieties such as DRMR 1165-40 (Rukmani), DRMRIJ 16-38 (Brijraj), and Advanta ADV 427 are also making waves in 2025, providing coarse grains and up to 42% oil. Farmers should choose certified seeds for higher yields.

Seed rate and sowing method

Seed rate depends on the type of field. In irrigated areas, 2-2.5 kg per hectare is sufficient, while in rainfed areas, 4-5 kg/hectare is required. Maintain a sowing depth of 2-3 cm. The best method of sowing is in lines, with a distance of 30-45 cm between plants. This facilitates weed control. Sowing by machine can increase yield by 10-15%.

Sowing Time

The ideal time for sowing mustard in Rajasthan is the first fortnight of October. In irrigated areas, it is October 5-20, while in rainfed areas, it is from September 15 to October 15. For delayed sowing (October 25 to November 10), choose special varieties. If temperatures are high, postpone sowing, as high temperatures affect germination.

Seed Treatment

Seed treatment provides protection against diseases and pests. Use fungicides such as metalaxyl, thiram, or captan. Imidacloprid is an effective insecticide. Organic options include Azotobacter and PSB cultures, which improve soil fertility. Treat seeds by drying them in the sun for 2-3 hours. This process can increase yields by up to 20%.

Temperature Requirements

Mustard is a temperature-sensitive crop. 20-25°C is ideal for germination, while 18-20°C is ideal during the growing stage. 10-15°C is optimal during maturity (January-February). Germination is affected if temperatures exceed 30°C, and frost may occur in winter. Monitor temperature fluctuations due to climate change in 2025.

Irrigation, Fertilization, and Other Management

Irrigation—3-4 irrigations are required in irrigated areas, with the first irrigation 20-25 days after sowing. In rainfed areas, the irrigation is dependent on rainfall.

Fertilizer—Apply N:P:K (60:40:20 kg/ha) based on soil testing. Add organic fertilizer, such as cow dung manure, at 5-10 tons/ha.

Weed Control—Weeding or spray with Isoproturon. Pests and Diseases - Use imidacloprid and mancozeb. Beware of white rust and aphids.

Essential Precautions and Tips

Soil Selection - Avoid saline or alkaline soil; check pH.

Seed Storage - Store in a cool, dry place to maintain germination.

Frost Protection - Spray with smoke or sulfuric acid.

Other - Monitor pests and practice crop rotation (with wheat or chickpea). Avoid sowing in high temperatures.

Benefits and Challenges of Mustard Cultivation

Mustard cultivation provides good profits to farmers, as the demand for oil is constant. The market price could reach ₹5,000-₹6,000 per quintal in 2025. However, climate change, pest attacks, and water scarcity are challenges. These can be addressed by adopting modern technologies such as drip irrigation.