Introduction to Major Field Crops

Sowing

Time of Sowing
For achieving higher yields early planting in July in the wet season and the first week of January in dry season are considered essential. Progressive delay in planting results in reduction in grain yield.

Seed Rate
Broadcasting of seeds require about 75 kg/ha while, transplanting requires about 40-60 kg/ha depending on size of the seeds. Select healthy, bold and good seeds by following the procedure.

1. Prepare salt solution by mixing salt (1.65 kg)in water (10 liters).
2. Test the salt solution concentration with fresh egg which would float in the solution. If egg sinks, add more salt to increase the concentration.
3. Pour the seeds in to the solution, stir well and allow it to settle down.
4. Discard the floating seeds and select the seed which has settled down in the solution.
5. Wash the seeds thoroughly with fresh water.
6. Same salt solution may be used again to test other lots of seeds.

Fig: Salt water preparation.

Fig: Testing of salt water with egg.

Fig: Mixing of seeds in salt water.

Spacing

The spacing followed in broadcasting or dibbling of seeds or transplanting of seedlings is 20 cm in between rows and 10-15 cm between plants.