Question

Seed rate for the cultivation of red gram, in kg/ha is:

• A. 12 - 15 kg ha
• B. 6 - 8 kg ha
• C. 25 - 30 kg ha
• D. 30 - 35 kg ha

Hint:

The seed rate of most medium-seeded pulses like Moong, Urd, and Arhar generally falls in the range of $12 - 20$ kg/ha for sole cropping.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Seed rate refers to the weight of seeds required to plant one hectare of land at the recommended spacing to achieve an optimum plant population.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Red gram (Cajanus cajan), also known as Arhar or Pigeonpea, has varying seed rates based on the variety:
1. For long-duration, branching varieties, the spacing is wider ($60 - 90$ cm between rows), and the seed rate is approximately 12 - 15 kg/ha.
2. For early-maturing, short-duration varieties, the spacing is narrower, requiring a higher seed rate of $18 - 20$ kg/ha.
3. If grown as an intercrop (common with Sorghum or Bajra), the seed rate drops to $2 - 5$ kg/ha.

Step 4: Final Answer:
The standard recommendation for a sole crop of red gram is 12 - 15 kg/ha.