Arhar, also known as pigeon pea or tur, is an important pulse crop widely grown in India. It is a major source of protein for rural and urban households and is also used as fodder, fuelwood, and green manure. The crop is hardy and can tolerate dry conditions, making it suitable for rainfed areas. With proper management, arhar can give good yields and improve soil fertility through natural nitrogen fixation.
1. Climate and soil requirements
Arhar grows best in warm, tropical climates. It requires a temperature of 25–35°C for good growth. The crop is sensitive to frost, especially during flowering. Arhar performs well in a variety of soils, but well-drained loamy soils are ideal. Avoid waterlogged fields because excessive moisture harms the roots and causes stem and root diseases. Slightly alkaline soils also support good growth.
2. Land preparation and sowing
The field should be ploughed 2–3 times to create a fine seedbed. In rainfed regions, sowing is usually done with the onset of monsoon (June–July). For irrigated areas, sowing can be done in October–November.
Seed rate depends on the variety and spacing. Typically, 8–12 kg of seed per acre is used. Spacing of 75 cm × 20 cm or 90 cm × 25 cm is recommended for proper aeration and sunlight, which helps in reducing disease and improving pod formation.
3. Seed treatment
Seed treatment is an important step that protects the crop from soil-borne diseases and enhances nitrogen fixation. Before sowing, treat the seeds with a fungicide and then inoculate them with Rhizobium culture. This improves root nodulation and helps the plant fix atmospheric nitrogen, reducing the need for chemical nitrogen fertilizers.
4. Nutrient management
Although arhar can fix nitrogen on its own, it still requires balanced nutrition for good root development, flowering, and pod filling.
Basal fertilizers: A small dose of nitrogen is needed at sowing, mainly to support early growth.
Phosphorus: Essential for root growth and nodule development. Apply the full dose at sowing.
Potassium: Helps in improving disease resistance and grain quality.
Micronutrients: Zinc, boron, and sulphur deficiencies can limit yield. Applying micronutrient mixtures or soil-based amendments improves crop performance.
Using organic matter, such as FYM or compost, before sowing helps in improving soil structure and moisture retention.
5. Irrigation management
Arhar is mostly grown under rainfed conditions and does not need frequent irrigation. However, one or two irrigations during flowering and pod development can significantly improve yields. Avoid waterlogging at any cost.
6. Weed control
Weeds compete for nutrients and moisture, especially during the first 40–50 days. Two manual weedings or intercultivation operations are usually enough. Mulching can also help suppress weed growth and conserve soil moisture.
7. Pest and disease management
Pod borer is the most damaging pest in arhar. Regular monitoring and timely spraying with recommended pesticides help control the pest.
Wilt disease causes yellowing and plant death. Using resistant varieties and proper crop rotation reduces the risk.
Removing diseased plants early helps prevent spread.
8. Harvesting
Arhar is ready for harvest when most pods turn brown and dry. Harvesting at the right time prevents shattering and grain loss. After threshing, grains should be dried properly to avoid storage problems.
