Raising chickens is a fulfilling experience, whether you’re doing it for fresh eggs, meat, or just as a hobby. One of the most important aspects of keeping your flock healthy and productive is providing them with a balanced diet.
While commercial chicken feed is convenient, making your own feed at home offers several advantages. You have control over the ingredients, ensure top-quality nutrition, and often save money in the process. In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making your own chicken feed, from understanding their nutritional needs to sourcing ingredients and mixing your custom feed.
Why Make Your Own Chicken Feed?
Before we delve into the how-to, let’s discuss why you might want to make your own chicken feed in the first place.
Cost Savings: Commercial chicken feed can be expensive, especially if you’re raising a large flock. By buying ingredients in bulk and mixing your own feed, you can often reduce your overall feed costs.
Quality Control: When you make your own feed, you know exactly what’s going into it. This allows you to avoid additives, preservatives, and fillers that are often found in commercial feeds. You can also tailor the feed to the specific needs of your chickens.
Customization: Chickens have different nutritional needs at various stages of their life. By making your own feed, you can customize the mix based on whether your chickens are chicks, layers, or broilers.
Sustainability: Making your own feed can be a step towards a more sustainable and self-sufficient farming practice, especially if you grow some of the ingredients yourself.
Understanding Chickens’ Nutritional Needs
To create a balanced feed, it’s crucial to understand the basic nutritional needs of chickens. The key components of chicken feed include:
Protein: Essential for growth, feather development, and egg production. Chickens typically require 16-20% protein in their diet, depending on their age and purpose (laying hens may need slightly more protein than broilers).
Carbohydrates: Provide energy. Grains like corn, wheat, and barley are common sources of carbohydrates in chicken feed.
Fats: Needed for energy and to help absorb fat-soluble vitamins. Sources include flaxseed, sunflower seeds, and fish oil.
Vitamins and Minerals: Essential for bone health, eggshell formation, and overall well-being. Common supplements include oyster shell (for calcium), salt, and vitamin premixes.
Fiber: Helps with digestion. Chickens get fiber from sources like alfalfa, grass clippings, and vegetable scraps.
Water: Although not part of the feed mix, water is crucial for the health and productivity of chickens. Ensure they always have access to clean, fresh water.
Basic Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Feed
Here’s a list of ingredients commonly used in homemade chicken feed. You can adjust the proportions based on the specific needs of your flock.
Corn: Provides energy through carbohydrates. You can use cracked corn for easier digestion.
Wheat: Another excellent source of energy, with some protein content.
Barley: Adds fiber and energy to the mix.
Soybean Meal: High in protein, essential for growth and egg production.
Oats: Provides both fiber and energy, making it a good all-around ingredient.
Fish Meal: Adds protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for overall health and egg quality.
Alfalfa: High in fiber and provides essential vitamins.
Sunflower Seeds: Rich in fats and proteins.
Oyster Shell: A source of calcium, important for strong eggshells.
Salt: Necessary for maintaining mineral balance.
Grit: While not an ingredient in the feed itself, grit helps chickens digest their food.
Sample Chicken Feed Recipes
Here are a few sample recipes to get you started. Adjust the proportions based on the age and type of your chickens.
Recipe for Laying Hens (16% Protein)
30% Corn
30% Wheat
20% Soybean Meal
10% Oats
5% Fish Meal
3% Alfalfa
2% Oyster Shell
This mix ensures that your laying hens get enough protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients for strong eggshells and consistent egg production.
Recipe for Broilers (20% Protein)
40% Corn
25% Wheat
20% Soybean Meal
10% Barley
3% Sunflower Seeds
2% Fish Meal
Broilers require a higher protein content to support rapid growth and muscle development. This recipe provides the necessary energy and protein for healthy broiler growth.
Recipe for Chicks (18-20% Protein)
30% Corn
25% Wheat
25% Soybean Meal
10% Oats
5% Fish Meal
3% Alfalfa
2% Grit
Chicks need a high-protein diet to support their fast growth. This recipe also includes grit to help them digest their food effectively.
Sourcing Ingredients
When making your own chicken feed, sourcing high-quality ingredients is crucial. Here are some tips on where to find the necessary components:
Local Farmers: If you live in a rural area, local farmers may be willing to sell you grains and other ingredients in bulk at a lower cost.
Feed Stores: Many agricultural supply stores carry the individual ingredients needed to make chicken feed. Look for non-GMO and organic options if possible.
Online Suppliers: Numerous websites offer bulk feed ingredients that can be shipped to your door. This is a convenient option if you don’t have access to local suppliers.
Homegrown Ingredients: If you have the space, consider growing some of your own feed ingredients. Corn, sunflowers, and alfalfa can be grown in a home garden and used in your chicken feed.
Grinding and Mixing
Once you have your ingredients, the next step is to grind and mix them. Here’s how:
Grinding: Some ingredients, like corn and grains, may need to be ground before being fed to chickens. You can use a grain mill or even a blender to grind the grains to the desired size. Chicks and young chickens require finer feed, while adults can handle coarser mixes.
Mixing: After grinding, combine all the ingredients in a large container or feed mixer. Make sure the mixture is evenly blended so that your chickens get a balanced diet with each feeding.
Storage: Store the feed in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent mold or pest infestations. Homemade feed, like any other feed, can go bad if not stored properly.
Feeding Your Chickens
With your homemade feed ready, it’s time to start feeding your flock. Here are a few tips:
Start Slowly: If your chickens are used to commercial feed, introduce the homemade feed gradually. Mix it with their regular feed, slowly increasing the proportion of homemade feed over a week or two. This helps prevent digestive upset.
Monitor Health: Keep an eye on your chickens’ health and productivity. If you notice any decline in egg production, weight loss, or other health issues, you may need to adjust the feed mix.
Supplement with Greens: While your homemade feed should provide most of the nutrients your chickens need, it’s a good idea to supplement their diet with fresh greens, fruits, and vegetable scraps. This adds variety and additional nutrients to their diet.
Provide Grit: Chickens need grit to help them grind and digest their food, especially if you’re feeding them whole grains. Make sure they have access to grit at all times.
Potential Challenges
While making your own chicken feed has many benefits, it’s not without challenges. Here are a few potential issues to be aware of:
Time and Effort: Mixing your own feed requires time and effort. If you have a large flock, the process can be time-consuming, especially if you’re grinding grains by hand.
Nutritional Balance: Ensuring your chickens get a balanced diet is critical. It’s easy to under- or over-supply certain nutrients, which can lead to health problems. Pay close attention to the nutritional content of your ingredients.
Storage Issues: Homemade feed doesn’t contain preservatives, so it may spoil more quickly than commercial feed. Proper storage is essential to prevent mold and pest problems.
Cost Fluctuations: The cost of raw ingredients can fluctuate based on factors like weather, demand, and location. This can affect the overall cost-effectiveness of making your own feed.
Conclusion
Making your own chicken feed is a rewarding and cost-effective way to ensure your flock gets the best possible nutrition. By understanding your chickens’ nutritional needs, sourcing high-quality ingredients, and carefully mixing your feed, you can provide a balanced diet tailored to your flock’s specific requirements. While it does require time and effort, the benefits of homemade feed—cost savings, quality control, and the satisfaction of self-sufficiency—make it well worth the investment.
Whether you have a small backyard flock or a larger operation, creating your own chicken feed can lead to healthier, happier chickens and better egg production.
Raising chickens can be a rewarding venture, whether for fresh eggs, meat, or even companionship. However, before diving into the world of chicken-keeping, it’s essential to make informed decisions. There are many factors to consider when buying chickens, from the breed and age to health and housing requirements. Buying chickens without proper knowledge can lead to health problems, poor egg production, or difficulties in managing your flock. This blog will guide you through the important things to know before purchasing chickens, ensuring you make the right choices for your backyard or small farm.
Why Should You Raise Chickens?
Before getting into the specifics of what to know when buying chickens, let’s explore why many people choose to raise chickens:
Fresh Eggs: One of the main reasons for raising chickens is the steady supply of fresh eggs, which are more nutritious than store-bought ones.
Sustainable Living: Chickens help reduce food waste by consuming kitchen scraps, and their droppings can be composted to enrich the soil.
Educational Experience: Raising chickens is a great way for families to learn about responsibility, animal care, and agriculture.
Pest Control: Chickens love to forage and will naturally help control pests like bugs, weeds, and ticks in your garden.
Now that we understand the benefits, let’s dive into what you need to know before bringing chickens home.
1. Choosing the Right Breed for Your Needs
One of the first things to consider is which breed of chicken is best for you. Chickens come in a variety of breeds, each with unique characteristics. The breed you choose will depend on what you’re looking for—eggs, meat, or both.
Egg-Laying Breeds:
Leghorn: Known for laying large white eggs and high production (250–320 eggs per year), Leghorns are ideal for those who want a steady supply of eggs.
Rhode Island Red: Excellent layers of large brown eggs, producing 250–300 eggs annually. They’re also hardy and suitable for colder climates.
Meat Breeds:
Cornish Cross: The go-to breed for meat production. Cornish Cross chickens grow fast and have excellent meat quality, making them popular among homesteaders.
Dual-Purpose Breeds:
Plymouth Rock: Known for both good egg production and quality meat, this breed is great for those who want the best of both worlds.
Orpington: Another dual-purpose breed, Orpingtons are friendly and reliable layers of large eggs, while also providing good meat.
Pros:
You can choose a breed tailored to your specific needs (eggs, meat, or both).
Some breeds are better suited for colder climates, while others thrive in warmer regions.
Cons:
Certain breeds may require more space, food, or attention than others.
Specialized breeds (e.g., for egg production) may not be good for meat and vice versa.
2. Where to Buy Chickens: Reputable Sources
When buying chickens, it’s crucial to purchase from a reputable source. Chickens can be bought from hatcheries, local farms, or breeders, but each option comes with pros and cons.
Hatcheries: Hatcheries offer a wide variety of breeds and usually ship day-old chicks directly to you. The chicks are typically vaccinated and come with health guarantees.
Local Farms: Buying from a local farm allows you to see the living conditions of the chickens. This option is ideal if you want to purchase mature chickens or pullets (young hens) that are closer to laying eggs.
Breeders: Breeders often specialize in specific breeds and can provide detailed knowledge about the chickens’ lineage, temperament, and health.
Pros:
Buying from reputable sources ensures that the chickens are healthy and free from diseases.
You can choose chickens at different stages of life, from chicks to mature layers.
Cons:
Hatchery chicks may require more care initially, especially if you’re not set up to brood them.
Local farms and breeders may have limited availability of certain breeds or flock sizes.
3. Age Matters: Chicks, Pullets, or Mature Hens?
When deciding to buy chickens, their age plays a key role in how quickly you’ll reap the benefits of eggs or meat.
Chicks: If you’re raising chickens from the start, day-old chicks are a popular option. They are affordable and give you the opportunity to bond with them from a young age. However, chicks require a brooder, heat lamps, and special care for the first few weeks.
Pullets: Pullets are young hens that are about 16–20 weeks old and just about to start laying eggs. They’re a great option if you want eggs sooner without the challenges of raising chicks.
Mature Hens: If you want immediate egg production, buying mature hens that are already laying is a good choice. However, they might not bond with you as easily as chicks or pullets and may have a shorter laying life.
Pros:
Chicks are more affordable and allow you to raise chickens from the beginning.
Pullets give you a head start on egg production without the challenges of raising chicks.
Cons:
Raising chicks requires more equipment and effort.
Mature hens might be more expensive and could be nearing the end of their egg-laying cycle.
4. Checking Chicken Health: What to Look For
It’s essential to assess the health of any chicken before buying it. Healthy chickens should be alert, active, and have bright eyes and clean feathers.
Here’s a checklist of what to look for:
Feathers: Healthy chickens should have smooth, clean feathers. Patchy or missing feathers may indicate poor health or overcrowded living conditions.
Eyes: Clear, bright eyes are a sign of a healthy bird. Dull or cloudy eyes can signal illness.
Comb and Wattle: The comb and wattle (the red skin around the head) should be bright red and free from scabs or discoloration.
Droppings: Check the droppings for signs of worms, diarrhea, or other health issues. Healthy chickens have firm, dark brown droppings with a small amount of white urates.
Pros:
Ensuring you buy healthy chickens minimizes the risk of introducing diseases to your flock.
Cons:
Not all health problems are visible, so buying from reputable sources is crucial.
5. Housing and Space Requirements
Before buying chickens, ensure you have adequate housing and space for them. Chickens need a secure coop to protect them from predators and provide shelter.
Coop Size: Each chicken should have at least 4 square feet of space inside the coop and 10 square feet in an outdoor run.
Ventilation: A well-ventilated coop prevents respiratory diseases and keeps the chickens healthy.
Perches and Nesting Boxes: Chickens need perches to roost at night and nesting boxes for laying eggs. Ensure your coop has enough of both.
Pros:
Proper housing keeps chickens safe and healthy, leading to better egg production and well-being.
Cons:
Building or buying a chicken coop can be costly if you’re starting from scratch.
6. Local Regulations and Permits
Before purchasing chickens, check your local laws and regulations regarding chicken-keeping. Some areas limit the number of chickens you can keep, while others may require permits.
Zoning Laws: Make sure you know the zoning regulations for your area, especially if you live in a suburban or urban location.
Noise and Smell: Roosters can be noisy, and large flocks may produce strong odors, so be mindful of how this might affect your neighbors.
Pros:
Knowing the local laws ensures that you avoid fines or legal issues.
Cons:
Some areas may have restrictive laws, limiting the number of chickens or prohibiting roosters.
Conclusion
Buying chickens is a big decision, and understanding what to look for can save you from future headaches. Whether you’re raising chickens for eggs, meat, or both, choosing the right breed, sourcing healthy chickens, and providing proper housing are key factors for success.
By following these tips and ensuring you meet your chickens’ needs, you’ll enjoy the benefits of fresh eggs, meat, and the satisfaction of raising happy, healthy birds. Happy chicken buying!
Keeping chickens is not only a rewarding hobby but also a commitment that comes with various responsibilities, especially when it comes to their health and safety. Emergencies can arise unexpectedly, ranging from health issues and natural disasters to accidents and supply chain disruptions.
To ensure the well-being of your flock, creating a comprehensive backup plan is essential. Here’s an in-depth guide to help you prepare for chicken emergencies effectively, ensuring that your chickens remain safe and healthy.
1. Assess Potential Risks
The first step in creating a backup plan is to conduct a thorough assessment of the potential risks that could impact your chickens. Understanding these risks allows you to tailor your emergency strategies accordingly. Here are some common emergencies to consider:
Health Issues: Chickens can be susceptible to various diseases, parasites, and injuries. Common ailments include respiratory infections, coccidiosis, and mites. Outbreaks can happen unexpectedly, leading to significant health problems within your flock.
Environmental Hazards: Extreme weather conditions, such as heatwaves, heavy rain, snow, or cold spells, can threaten your chickens’ safety. Additionally, predators like raccoons, hawks, or stray dogs can pose a risk, especially during nighttime or in vulnerable conditions.
Natural Disasters: Floods, fires, earthquakes, or severe storms can disrupt your chicken’s habitat, leading to the loss of shelter and food sources. Knowing the natural disaster risks in your area can help you prepare accordingly.
Food Supply Disruptions: Shortages of feed or clean water can occur due to supply chain issues, market fluctuations, or increased demand. In a pinch, having alternative sources of nutrition or emergency feed stored can be a lifesaver.
By understanding these risks, you can develop a more tailored and effective emergency plan for your chickens.
2. Establish an Emergency Contact List
An emergency contact list is crucial for a swift response during a crisis. Compile a list of important contacts that may need to be reached during an emergency, including:
Veterinarian: Identify a veterinarian who specializes in poultry or has experience with chickens. Having their contact information readily available can save precious time during health emergencies, ensuring your chickens receive prompt care.
Local Animal Control: For issues related to predators or stray animals, knowing who to call can help protect your flock. Many local animal control agencies can assist in managing wildlife threats.
Neighbors or Friends: Identify nearby neighbors or friends who can assist in an emergency, especially if you’re unavailable. Having a trusted friend or neighbor who understands chicken care can make a significant difference.
Local Feed Suppliers: Keep a list of local feed suppliers to ensure you can quickly access food and supplies when needed. Establishing a good relationship with suppliers can also provide insights into future supply chain issues.
Make sure this contact list is easily accessible, perhaps on your phone or posted in a prominent place in your coop, and share it with anyone involved in your chickens’ care.
3. Create a Health Care Plan
Developing a comprehensive health care plan is crucial for managing potential health emergencies. This plan should include:
Routine Check-Ups: Schedule regular veterinary visits to keep your flock healthy and catch any potential issues early. Regular check-ups can help identify problems before they become serious.
Vaccination Schedule: Stay updated on vaccinations necessary for your chickens, such as those for Marek’s disease, avian influenza, or Newcastle disease. Consult with your veterinarian to establish a vaccination schedule based on your flock’s needs.
First Aid Kit: Assemble a chicken first aid kit that includes essential items like antiseptic, bandages, and medications for common issues (e.g., electrolytes for dehydration, antibiotics for infections). Familiarize yourself with how to use these supplies effectively.
Signs of Illness: Educate yourself on the common signs of illness in chickens, such as lethargy, changes in appetite, respiratory issues, or abnormal droppings. Early detection can lead to more effective treatment and recovery.
By having a proactive health care plan, you can minimize the impact of health emergencies on your flock and ensure that they receive timely care when needed.
4. Prepare for Environmental Hazards
Environmental hazards can pose a significant risk to your chickens, so it’s important to prepare accordingly:
Shelter: Ensure that your chicken coop is sturdy and weather-resistant. Inspect it regularly for any potential vulnerabilities, such as leaks or weak points that could allow predators to enter. Reinforce the coop and run as needed.
Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent overheating during hot weather. Ensure that your coop has adequate airflow while still providing protection from predators. Consider installing adjustable vents that can be opened or closed based on the weather conditions.
Predator Prevention: Install sturdy fencing around your chicken coop and run. Use buried fencing to prevent digging and consider adding motion-activated lights or sound devices to deter predators. Regularly inspect the area around your coop for signs of predator activity and make necessary adjustments.
Emergency Shelter: Consider having a temporary shelter or portable coop on hand that can be quickly set up in case of extreme weather or a predator threat. This shelter can be made from easy-to-assemble materials and should be lightweight for easy transport.
Taking these proactive steps will help safeguard your chickens from environmental dangers and ensure they have a secure living space.
5. Plan for Food and Water Supply
A reliable food and water supply is essential for your chickens’ well-being, especially during emergencies. Consider the following:
Stock Up on Supplies: Keep an emergency stockpile of chicken feed and clean water. A general rule of thumb is to have at least a week’s worth of feed stored, as well as several gallons of fresh water. This can be especially important during natural disasters when access to supplies may be limited.
Water Sources: Ensure you have backup water sources, such as large containers, buckets, or rain barrels, to provide water in case of supply interruptions. Regularly check and clean water sources to prevent contamination and ensure they are filled during emergencies.
Feeding Schedule: Maintain a consistent feeding schedule to ensure your chickens are well-nourished. Familiarize yourself with the amount of feed your flock requires daily, taking into account factors like age, breed, and production needs (e.g., layers vs. broilers).
Alternative Nutrition Sources: Consider keeping alternative sources of nutrition, such as grains, kitchen scraps (vegetable peels, grains), or even sprouted seeds, to supplement their diet in case of feed shortages.
By planning for food and water supplies, you will keep your flock healthy and well-nourished during emergencies.
6. Create an Evacuation Plan
In the event of a natural disaster or other emergencies, having an evacuation plan is crucial. Consider the following steps:
Identify Safe Locations: Determine where you could relocate your chickens in case of an emergency. This could be a friend’s farm, a neighbor’s property, or an emergency shelter designated for livestock.
Transportation: Have a means of transport ready, such as carriers or crates, to safely transport your chickens if needed. Make sure these are easily accessible and familiar to your birds to reduce stress during transport. Practice loading your chickens into these carriers to make the process smoother in an emergency.
Practice Evacuation Drills: Conduct practice drills to ensure that you and anyone helping you can quickly and efficiently evacuate the chickens. This will help reduce panic and confusion during a real emergency.
Emergency Supplies: Prepare an emergency kit that includes food, water, and necessary health supplies for your chickens during evacuation. Having these essentials on hand will make the transition easier.
An effective evacuation plan will ensure the safety of your flock during emergencies and provide peace of mind knowing you’re prepared.
7. Document Important Information
Keeping a record of important information related to your chickens can assist in emergencies. This documentation can include:
Health Records: Maintain records of vaccinations, health check-ups, and any medications administered. This information will be useful for your veterinarian if issues arise and can help streamline treatment.
Contact Information: Keep a list of all emergency contacts and their roles in your backup plan. This will streamline communication during a crisis, ensuring everyone knows their responsibilities.
Feeding and Care Instructions: Document feeding schedules, dietary needs, and care instructions to share with anyone who may need to care for your chickens in your absence. This can be especially helpful for neighbors or friends stepping in during emergencies.
Emergency Procedures: Write down detailed emergency procedures, including steps to take for various situations (e.g., disease outbreaks, natural disasters). Share these procedures with your emergency contacts.
Having organized documentation will facilitate quick decision-making during emergencies and help maintain the care standards for your chickens.
8. Stay Informed and Educated
Continuously educate yourself about chicken care and emergency preparedness. This ongoing education can help you feel more equipped to handle any situation. Consider the following approaches:
Researching Best Practices: Read articles, books, and join online forums or local groups focused on chicken care and emergency management. Understanding the latest research and best practices can enhance your preparedness.
Attending Workshops: Participate in workshops or webinars related to poultry health, emergency preparedness, and sustainable farming practices. Learning from experts in the field can provide valuable insights and practical strategies.
Networking: Connect with other chicken owners to share experiences and strategies for managing emergencies effectively. Joining local poultry clubs or online communities can foster a sense of support and resource sharing.
Emergency Training: Consider training courses in basic animal care, first aid, and emergency response. This knowledge can significantly enhance your ability to handle emergencies with confidence.
Staying informed will empower you to respond to emergencies confidently and efficiently, ensuring the health and safety of your chickens.
Conclusion
Creating a backup plan for chicken emergencies is essential for the health and safety of your flock. By assessing potential risks, establishing an emergency contact list, developing a health care plan, preparing for environmental hazards, and documenting important information, you can mitigate the impact of unforeseen circumstances. Staying informed and educated about chicken care will further strengthen your ability to respond to emergencies. With a solid backup plan in place, you can ensure that your chickens thrive, no matter what challenges arise.
Carrot is one among the popular root vegetables and can be grown easily in your backyard. It needs well-drained and fertile soil with 8 hours of sunlight. It takes about 70-80 days to grow carrot at home. Regular inspection is needed to avoid pests and diseases.
If you can grow carrots in the garden, you will get the best of the varieties, full of flavor and texture! Carrots are very popular, loved, long-lasting vegetables. And you can grow them in almost any climate. Here is everything about carrot farming methods, planting growing, and harvesting.
You can grow carrots pretty easily if you can use loose, sandy soil during cold days of the growing season – fall and spring, and carrots can tolerate frost as well. Depending on the local conditions and variety, carrots may take two to four months for proper growth. Plant them in summer and spring and harvest them continuously through the fall!
Why is the Type of Soil Very Important?
It is massively important to choose the most suitable soil for profitable carrot farming. If the roots of the carrot don’t grow easily, you may end up getting misshaped crops – of course, the last thing you would want!
Here is how to prepare the soil for carrot farming:
Till down 12 inches and remove all the stones, rocks, and even the clumps of soils – ensuring the soil is very smooth and sandy.
Don’t amend the soil with material rich in nitrogen like manure and fertilizer, which can disrupt the healthy growth of carrot roots. Working in cold coffee grounds is a great idea.
If there are a lot of clay or rocks in the ground, you should think about planting carrots in a raised bed with 12 inches deep trenches filled with airy, loamy soil.
Climate Requirement for Carrot Farming:
Cold weather is ideal for growing carrots but does well in warm climates too.
The optimum temperature for healthy growth is 16 degrees Celsius to 20 degrees Celsius, while temperature more than 28 degrees can drastically affect the production. Temperatures below 16 degrees Celsius may affect the natural colour of carrots, and may even lead to slender roots, while there are shorter and thicker roots in warm climates.
The temperature range of 15 degrees Celsius to 20 degrees. Celsius is very, very good for growing carrots, as you will get attractive roots with decent colour and quality.
Planting Dates for Carrots
Fall Carrots Planting:
Usually, the first frost occurs at the end of September in the USA
For carrot harvesting in summer, you should sow the carrot seeds outdoors three to five weeks before the end of spring frost.
To ensure productive carrot harvesting, you should plant a fresh round of seeds every three weeks continuously through the spring.
If you want to harvest carrots during fall, ensure sowing seeds in mid to late summer. Start approx ten weeks before the first fall frost.
Choosing the right planting site
Location with proper, direct sunlight is the best site for carrot farming, though they survive in partial shade as well.
As already discussed, you should opt for loose, loamy or sandy, airy soil, so that the roots can easily go through the soil.
Propagation of Carrots
Propagation of carrots is done using the seeds. Depending on the variety, the seeds that are broadcast or sowing in the filed with a seed rate of 5 to 6 kg/ha or 6 to 9 kg/ha.
Seeds are smaller in size and count approx. 800 per gram. And they remain lively for as many as three years with up to 80% chances of germination. However, the germination may be inadequate in some local varieties.
Therefore, you should not forget to get a rough calculation of germination percentage while calculating the requirement of seeds.
For best results, procuring clean, healthy and viable seeds from a reliable source is very important. Usually, the carrot seeds take up to 7 to 20 days to germinate properly.
The atmospheric temperature of 20 to 30 degrees Celsius is ideal for seed germination (different from the growth of carrots).
Carrot planting from seeds is the best option, instead od transplanting. It would be best if you sowed the seeds directly in the field, keeping in mind that they don’t like any disturbance whatsoever.
Sow the seeds 2 to 3 inches apart in rows, ¼ inch deep, and 1 foot apart.
A useful TIP: Ensure distributing seeds equally so that they don’t grow together at the same place. You can use a seed-sower for proper distribution.
Again, maintain enough moisture in the soil with frequent shallow watering. Small carrot seeds don’t like hard crusts or lumps for their growth. Covering the seeds with fine compost or vermiculite is also a decent idea to prevent the formation of crusts.
You can check the moisture by putting a finger in the ground – the soil should be moist, but not wet.
At times, carrots germinate very slowly, and it may take two to three weeks to show any sign of life. So, being patience is also very important. If you have maintained the right carrot planting distance, there are very high chances of timely, healthy and productive germination.
Tip: You can add radish seeds to carrot seeds to track the growth of carrots. As radish grow quickly, you can harvest them, and the carrots will also start to grow.
Fertilization Management in Carrot Farming:
You should choose the fertilizers after proper analysis of the soil.
Farm Yard Manure with the distribution rate of 30 tonnes per hectare is recommended at final ploughing with a dosage of 40 to 60 kg nitrogen, 90 to 110 kg potassium, and 25 to 50 kg phosphorus for every hectare.
Add about three tons of farmyard manure while preparing the land, mixed with 40 kg phosphorus, 50 kg nitrogen, and 50 kg potash for each hectare.
Add a full dose of phosphorus and potassium, and half the dose of nitrogen before sowing the seeds. You should add the remaining nitrogen at the 56th week of germination.
Carrots love feeding on potassium, deficiency of which can severely affect the roots as well as the overall metabolism of the plants. Carrots with low potassium quantity are not good to taste and don’t last long too.
Irrigation Management for Carrot Crops
The first carrot farming irrigation should be light, and you should do it immediately after sowing. Carry out the subsequent irrigations as per requirement.
As discussed, too much moisture is not ideal for carrot crops, and you may end up getting light-coloured, short carrots with a larger diameter. Types of soil, season, and variety of carrots play key roles in deciding the requirement of irrigation.
Usually, irrigation in every 5 to 6 days in summer and 10 to 15 days in winter is ideal for adequate moisture for the carrot crop.
Only occasional irrigation is needed during the rainy season. It would help if you avoided water stress around the roots, especially while they grow, to prevent from cracking.
Carrot Care Tip
While Carrots Are Growing
Mulching carrots gently is a decent option to maintain moisture, speed-up the germination, and stop direct sunlight to the roots.
When seedlings are of one-inch height, they will usually stand 3 to 4 inches apart. You should trim the tops with a farming scissor instead of plucking them to avoid certain damage to the fragile roots.
One-inch water every week is recommended in the beginning, then two inches with the growth of roots.
Weeding is an important aspect of carrot planting care, but ensure you don’t disturb the young roots while doing so.
Fertilizer with low-nitrogen quantity but high potassium and phosphate after 5 to 6 weeks of sowing is recommended. Excess nitrogen in fertilizer works on the top of carrot plants, not on the roots.
Managing Pests and Diseases
There are some common pests and diseases associated with carrot planting. They are:
Black (Itersonilia) canker
Flea Beetles
Carrot rust flies
Root-knot nematodes
Wireworms, and
Aster Yellow Disease:Causes discoloured and shortened carrot tops with hairy roots. You can invest in a control plant to control the pests like leafhoppers.
Carrot Harvest and Storage:
Harvesting
Small-sized carrots taste best, so you should prefer carrot harvesting when they are still young.
You can decide to harvest, depending on your priority. Carrots with the width of a thumb or at least ½ inch of diameter are very good for harvesting.
Suppose you are planting carrots in the early summer or spring. In that case, harvesting before the arrival of hot days is the best idea, as carrots may get fibrous under high atmospheric temperature.
Harvesting carrots after one or more frosts are linked with better taste, as the plants store more energy (sugars) in the roots for later usage.
You can also preserve the carrots after first frosts by covering the 18-inch layer of shredded leaves for late carrot harvesting.
FYI, Carrots are biennial crops. If you don’t harvest due to some reason, the tops will start flowering and producing seeds after the first year.
Storage
Once the carrot harvest season is at its end, storage is the next big task.
Twist or cut the ½ inch off the tops of carrots to store them fresh.
Don’t forget to remove any dirt under cold, running water, and dry in the air.
Refrigerate only after sealing them in airtight plastic bags; otherwise, they will get limped within a few hours.
For temporary carrot storage, you can leave the mature ones in the soil, if there are not freezing or pest’s problem with the soil.
Tubs, sand, dry sawdust with the cool, dry atmosphere are also some other options for storage.
Recommended Varieties
There are plenty of different carrot varieties. They are of rainbow colors, shapes, and sizes!
Bolero: 7 to 8 inches, slightly tapered, resists most leaf pests as well as blights.
Danvers: One of the classic heirloom carrot varieties, tapered at the end, and has a dark, rich orange color, suitable for heavy soil.
Little Finger: Another heirloom variety, looks like Nantes as they grow only 4 inches long, and one inch thick; one of the best varieties for storage.
Nantes: Cylindrical, 6 to 7 inches tall, sweetest of them all; with a crisp texture.
Napoli: One of the first-rate sub-types of Nantes variety, grown in spring, known for bright orange roots, mild, juicy, crunchy, and fine texture.
Some common varieties of UK carrot:
Altrincham: Long and slender roots with good flavour. The neck is purple, where it is exposed to sunlight.
Autumn King: One of the most common commercial carrots, flaky type, with strong tops and heavy yields. A true winter carrot, which is fairly colourful and smooth.
Baby Bell: Small, tender type, matures earlier than most of the other varieties.
Belgian White: Large roots with white skin, very popular in Belgium as well as France.
Crusader: One of the Nantes types, good colour, smooth skin, ready to harvest in autumn, summer and late spring.
Wit and Wisdom
There are so many different colors of carrot, including orange, purple, red, and white, and only some of them are resistant to pests and diseases.
Long-lasting carrots contain a rich quantity of sugar and are a very good source of carotene and vitamins.
Carrot is also called as “underground honey” in Ireland due to its sweetness.
FYI, carrots are the first vegetables to be commercially canned.
That’s all about our guide on “how to do carrot farming”.If you are planning to start carrot farming, we would suggest you go ahead. It’s easier; it’s full of fun, and very, very productive too.
Hopefully, you liked it, and you are not better prepared to start your own carrot farming. Do write to us if you have found it helpful, or if you have some questions. Share the guide with your friends who are interested in carrot farming.
The term beans generally refers to large seeded plants that include soybean, peanut and peas. Beans are one of the evergreen vegetables that can be grown easily in your backyard, terrace garden and even in your balcony as well. They belong to the legume family and have enormous amounts of health benefits.
Beans are a good source of protein and fiber and are also rich in iron, potassium and magnesium.
How to Grow Beans and What Month do you Plant Beans:
Beans need warm weather to grow, so if you are planning to grow green beans then summer is best for growing, start it in summer as cold weather or frost can damage the seeds and make them rotten. Sow the seeds directly in the garden, if you transplant it later, then the roots may get easily damaged as they are shallow.
Before planting the beans make sure to know about the type of plant that it grows into, whether it is a bush bean or pole bean.
Bush bean: If it is a bush bean then sow the seeds one or two inches deep and apart. In case you are planting it in garden then the rows should be 2-3 feet apart.
Pole bean: If you are planting pole bean then they need support of some stick or pole to grow. For every 3-4 seeds one pole is required with a space of 3-4 feet between each pole.
These beans grow when under full sunlight or at least look for a place where there is partial sunlight. The soil should be well drained but moist enough for the seeds to germinate.
Different Types Of Beans:
Beans come in large variety, some can be eaten raw while the other needs to be cooked. The green tender pods can be consumed as it is, where as the dried ones need to be cooked before consuming.
They are considered nutritious as it contains large amount of protein, carbohydrates and minerals. The various beans cultivated through out the world are
French Beans
Soy Beans
Kidney Beans
Cluster Beans
Lima Beans
Broad Beans
Sword Beans
Garden Beans
Dolichos Beans
Navy Beans
Fava Beans
Pinto Beans
Cranberry Beans
In this article we are going to study about how to grow kidney beans, when to harvest beans, when to plant broad beans and how long do broad beans take to grow.
How To Grow Kidney Beans
Kidney beans are very healthy as they contain antioxidant properties, vitamin B6, folic acid as well as cholesterol lowering fiber. Kidney beans can be a good choice for vegan’s as well as the one having diabetes. Kidney beans need to be consumed only once they are dried and cooked, the raw once are toxic.
Kidney beans can be planted when the temperature is about 18-26 degree Celsius. It is best to do the planting in the spring or after the last frost. It give good results when they are directly sowed in the garden instead of doing transplant, as it may damage the plant and it may not yield well.
Kidney beans comes in two varieties-bush and vine. Make sure you know what type of seed you are using. The vine variety need some sort of support like a pole or trellis to grow.
The planting area should have full sun exposure or at least for about 6 hours daily. Kidney beans require humidity and warmth to thrive. Make sure that the temperature does not go below 16 degree Celsius. Sow the kidney bean seeds 1-2 inches below the soil surface, giving a space of about 4 inches between each seed. Water the plant daily once, when the soil is dried out, do not give over supply of water. The seeds will germinate in about 10-12 days.
Unexpectedly if there is snow fall after the beans have sprouted , cover the seedlings with a canvas or cloth so that it doesn’t get effected by the freezing temperature.
Harvest And Storage
If you have planted bush variety then it needs to be harvested only once at the end of the growing season. But if it is pole variety then it has to be harvested several times through out the season. The average harvesting time will be 3-4 months depending on the type of seed you use.
If there are some unfavorable conditions like dropping temperature that may threaten your harvest then pull out the plants early. Keep the plants for the pods to dry out completely, it may take several days or weeks. As you dry the seeds keep them in a warm indoor location with lots of circulating air.
How To Grow Broad Beans
Broad beans produce high yields from the smaller area of garden. These can be grown in modest sized pots as well. This vegetable is easy to grow, especially a good activity for children.
Lets learn about when and how to grow broad beans.
Before starting with the planting few things need to be kept in mind. Always choose a spot away from strong winds, sheltered spot, fertile land and a place where you can easily get sunlight.
When To Grow Broad Beans
Some variety of broad beans need to ne sown in spring while some are well grown if you plant them in autumn. If you sow it in November, that is autumn then it will germinate within 2-3 weeks.
The germinated seeds will overwinter and start growing again in spring. In severe winters you need to protect the crops by covering it with fleece or cloches.
How To Sow Broad Beans
The seeds of broad beans should be sown 2 inch deep into the soil. Each seed should have a gap of at least 9 inches. These can be sown in double row with a gap of 9 inches between each row. After sowing the seeds water them adequately.
Now you will be concerned about how long does it take for the broad beans to grow. Well the answer is that these beans germinate in approximately 10 days.
When To Harvest Broad Beans
Broad beans should be harvested and when they are 3 inches long. You can even wait for a little longer and harvest them later. But make sure that when you harvest the seeds should be soft and pots well filled.
Best time to consume them is when the scar on the edge of the seed is white or green. If it has become black then the bean will become hard and chewy.
The most important thing to keep in mind while sowing any seed is that don’t be in a hurry to plant the seeds, wait till the weather becomes appropriate as all the seeds may not be suitable for all typed of weather.
Take proper care after the seeds germinate and protect them from insects and mice attack.
Do you know what is mango known as? Aam, as we call it in India is crowned with the title of King of Fruits. Mango Farming is the most dominant and money-making venture in the world.
It is loved and relished for its taste, appearance, and low upkeep cost. The perk of cultivating mango is that it can be consumed at any stage.
Like the raw mango has a delightful taste as chutney, Aam Panna, pickle, sauce. A full grown, mango can be consumed as shakes, juice, jelly, ice-cream, and desserts.
India exports a huge quantity of mangoes to the USA, Europe, and Middle-East. Mango farming is the most money extracting fruit grown in the Indian sub-continent.
If you want to start your mango farm, you need to gather all relevant about its cultivation. Here, is an outline of important steps to be executed to ensure good mango production.
Types of Mangoes
Here is a list of mangoes with their place of origin. Let’s get a quick look through it:
Alphonso- Ratnagiri, Maharastra
Kesar- Junahgadh, Gujarat
Dasheri – Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Himsagar and Kishan-bhog, West Bengal
Chausa- Uttar Pradesh
Safeda -Andhra Pradesh
Totapari
Amrapali
Langda
Sweetest mango variety
For all the beginners and mango lovers, it is difficult to figure which the best variety of fruit among all. Carabao, the manilla mango is the best and sweetest mango in the world.
However, if we talk about Indian mangoes, Alphonso, the king of all is the best and sweetest mango among all. But don’t forget that mango itself is a sweet fruit loved by all. Every variety is sweet and unique in its way.
Requirements for mango farming
Mango can be planted through seeds or by vegetative propagation. The propagation is carried out through techniques like veneer grafting, epicotyl grafting, and inarching.
Surely, vegetative propagation is a rapid process of germination. It should be carried out through grafting trees.
The spacing of mango trees
The spacing pattern of the trees should be 10 m * 10 m. This is the ideal pattern to be followed to ensure a good yield.
The mango trees are tall and wide. So, they require adequate space to expand themselves. If you compromise with its space, the growth of the tree would be hampered.
As a result, you will be deprived of a desired and profitable yield.
Mango plants training
Training mango plants is an essential step to ensure the proper shape of the fruit. It becomes unavoidable in the case of low branched grafting.
The plant should attain a minimum height of 1 meter for training to be executed well. Regular trimming of branches and leaves ensures th healthy growth of the plant.
The plantation is disease-free and the energy of the plant is centered towards the growth only. Therefore, a continuous training process is maintained to get the desired fruit quality.
In mango farming, it is a mandatory step.
The season for mango plantation
For rain prone areas, the plantation is done in July-August, for irrigation-based areas it is carried out in February-March, and at the end of rainfall in rain prone areas.
Rainfall is a good factor to enhance the growth of the tree. As heavy water intake is needed for the thriving of mango trees.
The process of fertilization is carried out in 2 doses. First one, immediately after planting, and the next in the young plants. A spread of urea (normally 3%) is advised in the case of sandy soil before the plant starts flowering.
Soil and light requirement for mango seeds
A mango seedling requires a good amount of sunlight but not direct sunlight. For nurturing the plant, a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight is required and 8-10 hours of sunlight will work wonders.
When planting mango seeds it should be kept in mind, that a good drainage system should be there. Like on watering the soil could flush out excess water.
In summers the plant needs water in excess, do remember excess doesn’t mean water overflow. The water should be well enough to keep the soil hydrated.
How to sprout a mango seed
To sprout a mango seed you need to remove the flesh from the fruit, the seed needs to be cleaned, to ensure that they are ready to plant.
Now, with the help of a sharp knife, chop off the edges of the seed. Ensure the visibility of the pod inside.
Take a container of 11 liter capacity. Place some soil beneath the container providing an outlet at the edge. For settling the soil fill some water in it.
The container is ready to plant the seed inside placing the pointed side downwards. One-fourth of the pod should be popping out of the soil.
Keep watering the seed and place it in a warm place ensuring sunlight but not directly.
Germination time of mango seed
The mango seeds germinate in a period of 2 to 4 weeks. A fully grown-up tree bears fruit in 5 years. These mango seeds germinate at a temperature range between 4-40 degrees.
But a higher range of temperature is ideal for germination. Seeds restore water in them, dies when dry. All the favorable conditions facilitate the process of germination.
A small bunch of leaves shoots up and the roots start getting firm deep into the soil.
Planting mango seed
A suitable temperature, enough sunlight, and adequate water content is a perfect recipe for healthy fruit. When you have all the necessities for mango farming, you can go for it.
You need to have a spacious place for the mango canopy. A mango tree has a stature of 90 feet with long leaves. So, it is recommended to plant them separately allowing proper space for them to thrive.
How long does it take a mango tree to grow?
This is the most common query among mango farming. Beginners are curious to know how long does it take a mango tree to grow? Before proceeding, this question needs to be answered.
From planting the seed in the soil to ultimately bearing fruits, it is a package of 5 years. It takes 5 years complete for a mango tree to produce your favorite mango fruit.
But a lot of rigorous hard work is required to nurture the mango plantation in these 5 years. Regular pruning of branches and leaves is necessary. Plus, after bearing flowers the water intake of the tree is around 26 gallons per week.
This should be maintained to prevent the tree from drying. The proper spread of fertilizers should be done to curb the spread of diseases.
The resultant is the delicious, tasty, and lip-smacking mango fruit.
Diseases infecting mango farming
Mango farming is threatened by aphids, bugs, and mites. Infections prevailing in the plantation can be witnessed in the form of webs on the leaves, white residue, or insects crawling over the leaves.
These infections need to be curbed in, timely before they hinder the growth of the plantation.
Mango farming is prone to anthracnose, a sort of fungal infection. They can be checked by the use of copper-based fungicide. It should be used after 14 days of planting.
How to take care of flowering mango tree
Some of the flowers are formed through the process of self-pollination. However, few of them are pollinated through fruit bats, humming birds, and bees. It must be noted that all the flowering trees don’t produce fruits.
Taking care of a flowering mango tree is a must. Proper care must be taken of those trees who produced heavily during the previous season.
They should be trimmed regularly. And should also provide more fodder to ensure a better flowering and fruit production in the present season as well.
The much-branched inflorescence needs to be detached or trimmed compulsorily. It ensures better flowering and fruit production.
In the regions where the evening temperatures trips below 30 degrees, these white creamy flowers become steady. On reaching the temperature range back, they tend to bear fruits immediately.
Mango yield per acre
The mango yield per acre varies. This depends on the quality of seeds sown and the good upkeep of the mango farming. Ideally, the yield ranges from 2.5 to 3 tonnes per year. Exceptionally, it can reach 9-10 tonnes per year.
A good spacing in the orchard, among the trees, and favorable climatic range shoots up the yield of a mango farm.
Mango farmers must adhere to these 2 most important factors apart from other upkeep necessities. A little extra care can make you earn higher profits.
When to harvest mango?
After flowering and bearing fruits, now the point arise when to harvest mangoes. The tasty tropical fruit of mango is grown in various parts of the world, favorable to mango farming.
The harvesting of the fruit is directly proportional to the amount of care taken of the tree in the 5 years of the plantation.
On average a good harvesting time prevails after the completion of 100-150 days from the flowering stage. Generally, flowering ends up producing fruits and you can observe the fruit grow in shape and size.
In 3 months, the fruits become ripe, this can be felt on touching the mango, as it becomes soft on ripening. The color turns into a proper yellow shade of the fruit.
Heavy fruit can be seen bulging downwards from the branches. This is an indication the fruit is ready to pluck.
Now, you have 2 ways to get the fruit down either shaking the tree or thrashing the branches to chop off ripen fruits.
Shaking tends to damage the roots and branches of the tree. Also, unripe fruits get disturbed as well. It is highly recommended to thrash the branches by the use of a rope or stick.
This the best way out to spank down your favorite mango fruit. The fruit is ready to explore the markets.
Once you are done with mango harvesting, it is time to get a reward for the 5 years of hard work done. Proper steps should be taken to avoid any sort of damage to the fruit during the transit period.
For transporting mangoes, the packaging is done in two ways either using a wooden crate or by using CFB boxes. However, for long-distance transit it advisable to store mangoes in CFB boxes as it is a perishable item.
Wooden crates can hold the mangoes for 8 days maximum. After that, they tend to perish.
When transporting to local nearby markets, wooden crates are the best open as they keep the fruit safe and fresh. And the fruit is ready to consume.
Is mango farming profitable?
To find out the profit ratio of mango farming, let’s calculate the cost of production involved. The cost of the land stands on whether it is owned or rented.
Then comes the plantation cost. This comes to around 2 lakhs per acre per year. And it gives a normal yield of 2.5 -3 tonnes or even up to 9-10 tonnes.
It is a profitable deal. A deal with huge profits. It is one of the most profitable ventures in horticulture. Profitability has a direct relationship with demand for the product in the market.
Mangoes are high in demand. The reason for this is the limited availability and good taste. This fruit is relished by everyone.
This tropical fruit is an evergreen fruit and never will lose it’s charm. Nothing can beat the demand for mango fruit.
Yes, you can say it is a tedious job but the hard work is paid off well. Whether its appreciation in taste or money, a mango farmer lands in huge profits after selling his mangoes in the markets.
People wait for those delicious mangoes in the market every year for their limited availability. So, the idea of mango farming is a sure shot profit deal. Crack this deal and enjoy the benefits.
The term beans generally refers to large seeded plants that include soybean, peanut and peas. Beans are one of the evergreen vegetables that can be grown easily in your backyard, terrace garden and even in your balcony as well. They belong to the legume family and have enormous amounts of health benefits.
Beans are a good source of protein and fiber and are also rich in iron, potassium and magnesium.
How to Grow Beans and What Month do you Plant Beans:
Beans need warm weather to grow, so if you are planning to grow green beans then summer is best for growing, start it in summer as cold weather or frost can damage the seeds and make them rotten. Sow the seeds directly in the garden, if you transplant it later, then the roots may get easily damaged as they are shallow.
Before planting the beans make sure to know about the type of plant that it grows into, whether it is a bush bean or pole bean.
Bush bean: If it is a bush bean then sow the seeds one or two inches deep and apart. In case you are planting it in garden then the rows should be 2-3 feet apart.
Pole bean: If you are planting pole bean then they need support of some stick or pole to grow. For every 3-4 seeds one pole is required with a space of 3-4 feet between each pole.
These beans grow when under full sunlight or at least look for a place where there is partial sunlight. The soil should be well drained but moist enough for the seeds to germinate.
Different Types Of Beans:
Beans come in large variety, some can be eaten raw while the other needs to be cooked. The green tender pods can be consumed as it is, where as the dried ones need to be cooked before consuming.
They are considered nutritious as it contains large amount of protein, carbohydrates and minerals. The various beans cultivated through out the world are
French Beans
Soy Beans
Kidney Beans
Cluster Beans
Lima Beans
Broad Beans
Sword Beans
Garden Beans
Dolichos Beans
Navy Beans
Fava Beans
Pinto Beans
Cranberry Beans
In this article we are going to study about how to grow kidney beans, when to harvest beans, when to plant broad beans and how long do broad beans take to grow.
How To Grow Kidney Beans
Kidney beans are very healthy as they contain antioxidant properties, vitamin B6, folic acid as well as cholesterol lowering fiber. Kidney beans can be a good choice for vegan’s as well as the one having diabetes. Kidney beans need to be consumed only once they are dried and cooked, the raw once are toxic.
Kidney beans can be planted when the temperature is about 18-26 degree Celsius. It is best to do the planting in the spring or after the last frost. It give good results when they are directly sowed in the garden instead of doing transplant, as it may damage the plant and it may not yield well.
Kidney beans comes in two varieties-bush and vine. Make sure you know what type of seed you are using. The vine variety need some sort of support like a pole or trellis to grow.
The planting area should have full sun exposure or at least for about 6 hours daily. Kidney beans require humidity and warmth to thrive. Make sure that the temperature does not go below 16 degree Celsius. Sow the kidney bean seeds 1-2 inches below the soil surface, giving a space of about 4 inches between each seed. Water the plant daily once, when the soil is dried out, do not give over supply of water. The seeds will germinate in about 10-12 days.
Unexpectedly if there is snow fall after the beans have sprouted , cover the seedlings with a canvas or cloth so that it doesn’t get effected by the freezing temperature.
If you have planted bush variety then it needs to be harvested only once at the end of the growing season. But if it is pole variety then it has to be harvested several times through out the season. The average harvesting time will be 3-4 months depending on the type of seed you use.
If there are some unfavorable conditions like dropping temperature that may threaten your harvest then pull out the plants early. Keep the plants for the pods to dry out completely, it may take several days or weeks. As you dry the seeds keep them in a warm indoor location with lots of circulating air.
How To Grow Broad Beans
Broad beans produce high yields from the smaller area of garden. These can be grown in modest sized pots as well. This vegetable is easy to grow, especially a good activity for children.
Lets learn about when and how to grow broad beans.
Before starting with the planting few things need to be kept in mind. Always choose a spot away from strong winds, sheltered spot, fertile land and a place where you can easily get sunlight.
When To Grow Broad Beans
Some variety of broad beans need to ne sown in spring while some are well grown if you plant them in autumn. If you sow it in November, that is autumn then it will germinate within 2-3 weeks.
The germinated seeds will overwinter and start growing again in spring. In severe winters you need to protect the crops by covering it with fleece or cloches.
The seeds of broad beans should be sown 2 inch deep into the soil. Each seed should have a gap of at least 9 inches. These can be sown in double row with a gap of 9 inches between each row. After sowing the seeds water them adequately.
Now you will be concerned about how long does it take for the broad beans to grow. Well the answer is that these beans germinate in approximately 10 days.
When To Harvest Broad Beans
Broad beans should be harvested and when they are 3 inches long. You can even wait for a little longer and harvest them later. But make sure that when you harvest the seeds should be soft and pots well filled.
Best time to consume them is when the scar on the edge of the seed is white or green. If it has become black then the bean will become hard and chewy.
The most important thing to keep in mind while sowing any seed is that don’t be in a hurry to plant the seeds, wait till the weather becomes appropriate as all the seeds may not be suitable for all typed of weather.
Take proper care after the seeds germinate and protect them from insects and mice attack.
Lavender, also known as Lavandulaspica consists of 30known species of flowering plants in the entire mint family. Lavender is a beautifully aromatic and rustic shrub or herb that originated in the mountainous region of the Mediterranean and North Africa. The height of the herb is from 40-80 cm. The plant has oblong, linear, and opposite leaves consisting of small purple flowers.
Lavender farming is really easy and it only requires ideal growing conditions and extra space. Climate is a critical factor in growing the lavender plant. Lavender can be containers/pots, and backyards. Growing dozens of lavender plants in the backyard of the house can make an individual earn a high profit. If the lavender is cultivated commercially on a huge scale, it can fetch high profits.
Also, there are plenty of ways in which lavender farming can help an individual earn money. For example, lavender can be used in making lotions, soaps, essential oils, fragrant sachet, teas, medicines, and flavorings. Also, fresh or dried lavender can be sold to earn huge profits.
The Indian subcontinent cultivates lavender on the slopes of the hills of Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh and in regions experiencing scanty rainfall. Successful cultivation of the lavender crop is also seen in Kashmir valley.
Types of Lavender
At a global level, there are five types of lavender varieties known in the market – French lavender, English lavender, Spanish lavender, Spike lavender, and, Lavandin
French lavender
French lavender or Lavanduladentata grows in warm climate and are extremely fragrant. This variety of lavender is grown annually in certain regions of the United States.
English lavender
English lavender, also known as Lavandulaaugustifolia is one of the popular species of lavender. This species is used in flavouring, oils, dried flowers, and perfumes. English lavender can be cultivated in warm regions where days are longer.
Spanish lavender
Spanish lavender or scientifically known as Lavandulastoechas blossoms in dark purple colour and are majorly used for dried flowers. Spanish lavender species are grown annually for decoration purposes.
Spike lavender
Spike lavender, also called as Lavandulalatifolia is grown to extract essential oils which is further used to make soaps. Spike lavender is also referred as Portuguese lavender and requires a Mediterranean climatic conditions.
Lavandin
Lavandin, also referred to as Lavandula x intermedia has a high oil and flower yield, however, the oil quality might not be of supreme quality as compared to the yield. The other name of Lavandin is Dutch lavender and this variety is a hybrid of Spike and English lavender.
In India, Spike lavender, Lavandin, True lavender (English lavender), and Sher-e-Kashmir varieties are grown.
Starting a Lavender Farm
Lavender flower farming should be on the top of a gardener’s list as it is a commercially profitable crop. The flower also adds more beauty to the garden. Although growing lavender on a farm is time-consuming and a risky business because the product may not be of preferred variety.
The transplants of lavender can be planted in small areas such as nurseries. To retain desired characteristics in the plant, growers opt for root divisions or cuttings. It is advisable to do a patch test in a small area to check the appropriate climatic conditions for the plant.
Lavender Propagation Techniques
In order to grow lavender for profit, cutting and planting through seedling is done. The sifted soil can be layered lightly. However, planting seeds need knowledge as well as effort. Beginners can start their journey of lavender cultivation by the cutting method. Tissue culture and layering can also be used for the propagation purpose of the plant.
Seedlings can be sowed directly in the area or in the trays. The germination time of lavender seeds is around 2-6 weeks. To plant the lavender plant by cutting (vegetative technique), it is essential to cut the stems which can be around 10 cm long. The leaves present in the lower region of the plant are removed. Slight humid soil is required in the cutting technique as excess water can cause decomposition. The spacing between each plant should be around 30-90 cm in the cutting method.
Tissue culture is preferred for mass production of the plant and to yield genetically identical and disease-free plants. The mother plants are selected and then cultured for bulk production. However, this technique is costly. On the other hand, layering method uses healthy stem from which a 12-15 cm foliage is removed.
This leaves a 10 cm foliage at the branch tip. The bare section is covered with moist soil. Once the new plants start to grow, they are separated from the mother plant. The new plants are then again planted in the field once the rooting starts. The roots in the plants take around 6-12 weeks to grow.
Spacing and Planting in Cultivation
Spring or Autumn is the best time for the transplantation of the seedling. The plant need plenty of room to grow. The lavender plant is planted 30-40 cm inside rows and are kept at a distance of 4 feet between rows. The highest yield should have plant density of 20,000/ha. For the proper root establishment of the plant, earthing up of soil is extremely essential.
Lavender can tolerate the drought situations. The water requirement of the plant is minimal and thus needs water every 2-3 weeks till the time the buds are formed. Later on, once or twice in a week is required until the harvesting is done.
Best Farming Conditions for Cultivation
Lavender plant being a Mediterranean plant grows best in the dry climatic conditions. The plant however can tolerate various temperature range. Cold or humid climate is not suitable for the proper plant development. Direct sunlight or sun exposure for approximately 6-8 hours is preferable for growing a healthy lavender plant.
Lavender grows best in a dry and warm environment, and in mild winters. Early years require pruning even during the mature stage as it makes the entire framework of the plant sturdy. Failing to do pruning an initial couple of years can result in woody stems subsequently affecting flowers and stem health.
In order to avoid humidity, a proper drainage system is preferred. As the rise in a humid environments increases the risk of fungal infections. Well-drained soil with pH in the range of 6-8 is used for the cultivation. A calcareous type of soil is ideal for lavender. The optimum temperature for lavender cultivation is in the range of 15-30 °C. The temperature of soil should be higher than 18 °Ctosupport proper growth. The product quality can be affected badly by overheating in summer.
lavender farm-purple beauty plants
In India, the best climatic condition to grow lavender is autumn season. This helps in firm establishment of the plant before the cold winter. Spring season further will help the plant to grow quicker.
Global Cultivating Regions
Lavender can be easily grown in Canada, Africa, Indonesia, Japan, UK, India, Australia, New Zealand, and USA. Other regions producing the herb are Goodwin Creek, Central Mexico, Bulgaria, and Italy, Spain among others.
Irrigation in Cultivation
The commercial cultivation of lavender requires irrigation for initial 2 years so that the crop can be properly established. The regions experiencing low rainfall and has light soil need irrigation only at vital growth stages. Irrigation is must during the flower initiation stage. It is advised to avoid sprinkler irrigation system as that may elevate disease conditions in the crop. Drip irrigation is the preferred system as it aids in controlling weed and in saving water.
Drip Irrigation for Lavender Fields
As discussed earlier, excessive moisture is not good for lavender crops. It can cause a lot of problems and can disrupt the overall growth, and hence productivity. Aerial irrigation is not suitable too, as it causes leaves to spit in half. Lavender is also at risk of rotting, especially of the soil, remains moist for a long time. Hence, proper planning is required to ensure healthy and productive growth of lavender plants.
Talking to the experienced lavender farmers about “how to do lavender farming” is not a bad idea either. After all, there is no substitute for experience. And they already have learned a lot of lessons, you are now about to learn, and they can give you some valuable feedback!
As said repeatedly, lavender plants don’t require a lot of water, and you should stay at the shorter side while watering. These plants can even withstand droughts well enough. All you need to do is to maintain the moisture in the soil.
Essential Tools for Lavender Cultivation:
Like other crops, lavender cultivation also needs some equipment and tools. These are some essential tools commonly required while planting lavender.
Sharp Sickle
Steel Shank
Kneeling Pad
Lavender Sifter
Mini Plow
A folding hand saw
Washable gloves
Fertilizers and Manures for Lavender Cultivation
Once the lavender plant is established properly, there is no need of fertilizer. The new plants do need fertilizers as they can boost the plant growth. It is recommended to use P 40kg/ha, N 100kg/ha, and K 40kg/ha. The basal application needs complete dose of K2O and P2O5 but only 20 kg nitrogen is used. Rest of the nitrogen is used in the later stage.
Diseases and Pests in Lavender
Lavender is resistant to most common pests and insects. However, to be successful in the farming of lavender, it is essential to prevent these insects rather than curing them in the later stage. There are chances that the plant might be affected by Mites, Slugs, Con chinchillas, and Whiteflies.
Preparing the land and making the right soil
Lavender farming profitability depends a lot on the land and soil. A lot of successful lavender farmers do some research before finally starting, and there is no reason why you should not do the same.
Well-drained, gravel-laden, sandy soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 is perfect for growing lavender. Dig the ground at least 18 to 24 inches deep and then add the soil to it. If you can mix the soil with a mixture of 1/3 clay, 1/3 loam, and 1/3 sand, the effectiveness of soil will be even better.
A lot of hybrid lavender species are known for producing sterile seeds. In such a scenario, you should use well-drained, light and moderately fertile soil.
How to Plant Lavender – Start Planting through Soft Cuttings
If you are a beginner, growing lavenders from seeds is not a good idea at all. Instead, start growing from soft cuttings, taking care of the resource links. Herbs grow from these links. Preparing the cuttings can be both frustrating and tedious. So, you should get some from a nearby nursery.
Leave a space of four feet between rows and 2½ feet between the two plants.
This type of spacing is ideal for growing approximately 4,000 plants per acre.
Ensure surrounding every plant with garden cloth, mulch the plats as well as rows to protect from weeds.
Add a light-colored hoop at the base of every plant, like gravel, sand, or a piece of marble. This will help the reflection of sunlight on the plants.
Prevent excessive moisture to keep your plants healthy.
When to Plant Lavender?
Planting lavender cuttings in the seedbed at the beginning of spring is the best idea. Lavender usually transplants in the autumn or winter. You can obtain a new lavender plant when it is grown a little, and the germination is started. The end of the summer is a suitable time to separate the branches. The flowering time will most probably end at that time.
Taking Care of Lavender Crops for High Yield and Profit
“Good care equals to good yield” suits very well to lavender farming as well. It needs a little bit of rain and a lot of direct sunlight. Furthermore, it can adapt to fall as well.
Removing invasive plants is recommended for proper lavender care. Invasive plants may take up the nutrients from the soil.
You should also remove the old branches at regular intervals. Because, old branches get woody, and may disrupt the growth of soft, younger plants.
You can divide the branches to reproduce new lavender.
Having good drainage for lavender is necessary to avoid puddles of water around the plant.
Pruning is suitable for lavender so that it can bloom the next year again.
Common Pests, Diseases, and their Management
Although, lavender is known as a repellent to most common insects and pests, controlling them is still a very important aspect of lavender care. The formula of “prevention is better than cure” suits the lavender crops best. Therefore, you should act before any sign of attack from pests or diseases.
You can keep a few lavender plants in pots and use them as a repellent spray to protect other plants. Basil and garlic are very effective to protect the plants from files, insects and some fungi.
Even after proper lavender care, plants may get the victim to different plagues. To avoid that, you would like to eliminate the dead or infected plants as soon as possible.
How to Harvest and store lavender?
It would help if you cut the entire branch with leaves and flowers while harvesting lavender. You can remove the leaves later. Use only sharp flower cutting tools to ensure maximum profit. Flowering begins in the first year itself, but the lavender gets ready for harvesting after one year of planting. So, you can start harvesting after 13 to 14 months of planting the cuttings.
Harvesting the lavender crops in the morning hours is ideal, as the oils are most concentrated at that time.
It would be best if you cut the stems as long as possible.
Gather them in bundles and use rubber bands for securing.
Hang them at a sheltered place for proper drying. A cool, dark place with good air circulation is recommended for drying.
Flowers will get dried after a few weeks, and you will be able to remove them by shaking the bundles gently. Shake them into lidded jars for a lot of uses!
The flowering process starts late in high slopes while it starts early in low altitude and warm regions. During the harvesting process, flowers are cut with 10 cm stem length. August or September is the ideal time for harvesting lavender in the Kashmir region.
The yield as well as the quality of the oil depends on various aspects such as the agro-climatic conditions, variety, process of distillation, planting, fertilization, and soil. A yield of 15kg/ha with oil content in the range of 1.2%-1.5% can be obtained under optimal herbal cultivation methods.
Now, lavender for marketing is ready. You can opt to trade in local markets or transport them to distant areas. You should get ready to get some decent money!
Lavender for Business
If you are planning for lavender farming, we would suggest you move ahead. But you will have to be a bit patient, at least in the first year, and you can, of course, afford it to become a successful lavender farmer.
Lavender is available in various fragrances and colours depending on the harvest. The family tree of lavender also constitutes widely known sage, Mediterranean herbs, thyme, and rosemary. The historical data suggests the use of lavender as a fragrant, medicinal, and culinary herb. Roman soldiers used the herb as a disinfectant while ancient Roman people scented their bath tubs using the plant.
The average life of productive and healthy lavender plant when used for commercial purpose is around 12 years. However, in certain cases steady produces are obtained for nearly 20 years. Planting lavender for gaining profit can be a perfect mode to transform the love for gardening and herbs into a method to earn money by selling the plants as well as the products. Various products can be made from the plant such as aromatherapy products, dried lavender bundles, herbal pillows, skin care products, lavender buds, tinctures, sachets, and oils. Manufacturing these products require less effort but are high in demand in the market.The herb is also used to increase the taste of honey. The baking process too uses lavender crop to enhance the taste.
Fresh bouquets also provide profit to the grower. A 20’x20’ area produces approximately 300 bunches/year which is of $1,800. The profit margin in large plots is even higher. For instance, a quarter acre area produces around 3,000 bunches which costs $18,000. The flower bunches that remains unsold can be dried and sold to florists, crafters, candle makers, beauty product manufacturers for various purposes.
The easy endeavor is to make soaps using the very simple melt and pour technique. These soaps are the best-selling gift items among the customers. Aromatherapy uses lavender oil as one of the most essential products. The distillation process helps in the extraction of lavender oil. The by-product obtained after the distillation process consists of the water-soluble products together with the oil and thus it is used in room fresheners and spritzers.
At a global level, a certain region of France has been involved in commercial lavender farming for centuries. North America has started to grow the crop on a commercial scale. The growers in these regions have started farming in the backyard as well as multi-acre farms. The knowledge is shared among the novice growers for better yield. Thus, lavender is considered a perfect cash crop for small growers to get substantial income.
Drying the Purple Herb
Once the process of harvesting is complete, the stems of the lavender bunches are tied with a strong rubber bands. The bunches are then transferred to the drying area as early as possible. The delay in transferring results in fading of the natural colour. The drying area should be well-ventilated, dry, and dark. Lavender bunches are hanged in upside-down direction for drying.
Advantages of Growing Lavender
The flowers of the crop are edible and the crop has an approximate life span of 10 years. The plant lavender can be grown without hassle but is a costly herb. The extracted oil has many health benefits such as preventing digestive issues, anti-inflammatory, reduces stress and anxiety, treats sleep issues, among others.
Thank you for reading this piece patiently! Hopefully, we have helped you at the beginning of your journey as a lavender farmer. If you have any questions, feel free to write to us. We will be more than happy to answer! And don’t forget to share with your friends and family members! Good Luck!
Okra is a vegetable commonly known as ladyfingers in many countries. These plants are very simple and easy to grow. Okro, gumbo, kopi, Arab, and bhindi are some other common names of okra pods.
This crop can be grown in different varieties of climate and soil. It requires plenty of sunlight. Also the roots should not remain wet for a long time. However, climate plays an important role in okra production. Cold climate is not very suitable for okra. They require proper temperature for germination of seeds.
To products a big crop yield you must be aware of how to increase production of okra?
Keep in mind the steps mentioned below to increase okra production.
Why are my okra plants not growing?
There can be a number of reasons for improper growth of your plants. Some of the common reasons for this are:
Lack of proper sunlight: sunlight is very important and main factor for growth of okra. It needs sun for 7-8 hours daily. Hence if the crop doesn’t get sufficient sunlight then it will not bloom.
Heat: Heat is very important for okra as cool climate will lead to rotting of the seeds. The temperature of soil should be at least 70° F. Therefore heat is necessary however if the plant doesn’t get sufficient heat then it may end up growing improperly. Hence it is said that areas having plenty of sunlight are most suitable for okra production.
Not getting enough water: Though okra is a plant that doesn’t need much water and can survive in less amount of that for a good and healthy plant it is important to water the plant from time to time.
Improper nutrition: It is clear that if a plant doesn’t get sufficient amounts of nutrients required then growth will definitely be affected. Hence to avoid this situation, one can add necessary fertilizers to the crop to fulfill the need of nutrients. For example, adding phosphorus is beneficial for flowering.
Right time: Usually the plant matures in 55-65 days but sometimes it may take a bit longer. Nothing can be done in this situation except wait. One should have patience and wait for flowering.
Wilted seeds are a common problem that you may often face. But it is not a big deal if you take necessary action on time. Keeping your crop hydrated can save them from wilting.
If you find that your plant is wilted then water it until the soil becomes moist. Then wait for about an hour and if you feel that the soil is dry then water it again.
Usually, in hot and dry climates the water gets evaporated very fast hence leads to wilted seeds. To treat this you need to water the plants at regular intervals. But before irrigation, put your finger in the soil 1-2 inches deep and check whether the soil is dry.
If the soil is dry then water it. On the other hand, if the soil has moisture then the reason for wilting is not lack of water. Excess sun or wind or any pest or disease may be responsible for this. So to avoid this change the position of the plant and shift it to an area where the sunlight is not direct or excess.
Next, if the problem is excess water then for that one can make some holes on the surfaces of soil, this will allow the water to penetrate to the soil. Also to avoid this one should check the soil before watering.
Along this remember that you don’t keep your plant in a pool of water as this can lead to yellow leaves.
Firstly aphids are small-sized insects that feed on the plant and suck the nutrients. These insects cannot be recognized easily. They are very tiny in size and can not be easily seen with naked eyes.
Okra exists in a variety of colors like yellow, brown, light green, pink or black. They have a waxy or wool-like coating on the surface. They have long antennae on their pear-shaped body. There are different methods to control aphids like:
Aphids are not very friendly to cold water. Hence one you spray chilled water on the leaves, there is no coming back of aphids on the same plant.
Flour can be another cure to aphids. Flour constipates the aphids hence can be sprinkled on the plant
Neem oil also has properties to destroy aphids. Along this insecticidal soaps or any dish washer solution can also be used.
Diatomaceous earth is an organic material that will vanish the aphids without harming the plant.
Isopropyl alcohol can also be used to control aphids. Ethanol however is also a great option.
Why is my plant not Blooming?
There can be different reasons for this but insufficient water is one of the main and common reasons for not Blooming. Along with this improper sunlight also delays blooming. Pruning of the plant on time is very important in this cultivation.
Hence if you don’t do this activity on time, then plants may not show flowering. Hence one should take care of all the above-mentioned points so that your plant blooms on time.
Homemade fertilizers of okra plant:
You can prepare fertilizers for your okra plant at home and increase production of okra plants by multiple folds. Preparing fertilizers at home will surely improve the quality of it as well as will be organic. A list of homemade fertilizers is given below:
Compost:
Compost is very common as well as easy to prepare. It is used by many cultivators for all types of crops. To prepare this, dig up a big hole in the ground. Put a layer of soil mixed with dry leaves. Then you can add a lot of things like kitchen waste like vegetable and fruit peels or other kitchen waste, paper, clothing, etc.
After that again cover it with a layer of soil and leaves. You can add such types of waste products afterward also. Now leave this for 45 days and your compost is ready.
You can also make a very nutritional solution for your crop again using your kitchen products. You can use the left over water or water from the vegetables or water left after washing your cereals. Whether it is pasta or eggs you can use all of them. Collect all the water and let it cool and you can use it. Also you can use hot boiling water on weeds to destroy them
Eggs shells
Eggs shells can also provide some nutrients to the plant. You can use all the leftover eggshells. Dry them properly and then grind them. Hence they are ready to be used. These contain calcium carbonate that improves the fertility of the soil.
These are some of the homemade fertilizers that can be used for your crop
Bottom line:
okra crop is one of the easiest crops to grow. However similarly as other crops they need proper care. In this article you can learn about some facts and points that you should know if you are growing okra crops and wish for higher crop yield than usual.
The tasty nutritious pineapple fruit has its popularity matched to mango fruit. Its yummy tangy flavor and appearance make it familiar with people.
How do pineapples grow? Is it profitable to grow a pineapple? How to plant a pineapple? These are some common queries that come to your mind when planning for pineapple farming.
This fruit is high in Vitamin A and Vitamin B. Also, has traces of Vitamin C and minerals, iron too. Caribbean, South, and Central America are the largest producers of pineapples, India holds the fifth position. Here is an overview of pineapple cultivation.
In India, it is popularly known as ANANAS. Here, Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, Bihar, and North-eastern states cultivate pineapple abundantly.
Plowing, digging, and leveling are done step by step to get the land ready for pineapple farming. In the case of trenches, a space of 165 cm from center to center is required.
Treatment for suckers
The suckers need to be sorted, healthy or unhealthy. Then the healthy ones should be eliminated from unhealthy ones.
The healthy ones are dried in the shelter and then dipped in Bordeaux mix before plantation.
The Necessity for pineapple farming
To ensure the best yield for pineapple farming always remember, a coastal and humid climate is necessary.
Season favorable for pineapple farming
The flowering season for pineapple farming is between December and March. It is advisable to maintain a gap of 12-15 months from the flowering season.
A heavy rainfall period is avoided for plantation, so it is done before the onset of monsoon rains. Too much rain in the early stage will ruin the pineapple plantation.
Soil requirement
For pineapple cultivation, sandy loam soil is a perfect choice to be made. Though alluvial and laterite soil is also ideal for pineapple cultivation.
The basic theory behind this is it should be free from waterlogging. Also, the acidic content should be between 5.5-6.0.
How often do we need to water a pineapple plant?
Normally, pineapple cultivation is done in tropical places enriched with a humid climate. So, the water intake of the fruit is sufficient.
No artificial irrigation is required. But when planting on a commercial basis there might be a need for additional water to get a healthy grown delicious fruit.
Artificial irrigation helps retain water during the offseason to nourish the plant. Thereby, facilitating water supply in deficit regions as well.
In such cases, you need to water a pineapple plant twice a week.
Let us know how do pineapples grow? To grow pineapples a set of 4 techniques is applied like flat-bed, furrow, contour, and trench.
This is entirely dependent on the land and rainfall pattern of the area of cultivation. A contour planting is generally practiced to curb soil erosion.
To give good support, the plant -soil is moved towards the trench area. The flat-bed planting pattern is adopted as the pineapple roots are very hollow. This is how pineapples grow.
Diseases of the pineapple plant
It is a pest-free crop, though in some severe cases scale insects and bugs are its worst enemy.
Fertilizers for pineapple crop
Pineapples are high in potassium and nitrogen requirement. For good pineapple farming, they are harmful to the soil, so they are applied in minimum quantity as per the requirement.
Nitrogen is generally divided into 6 doses. The first is applied after 2 months of cultivation and the last one before 12 months of harvest.
Similarly, potassium is given in 2 doses. Half can be applied after planting and the remaining after 6 months from the plantation.
Pineapple harvesting
After 12-15 months of planting, the pineapple crop bear flowers. It takes a complete 15-18 months to get a fully grown pineapple fruit.
The growth of pineapple depends upon the climate, temperature, variety of pineapple, size, and type of plant material.
The month of May-August is the time for pineapple harvesting. After 5 months of flowering, the plant bears fruit.
For canning purposes, the fruits are extracted from the plant when the fruit is not fully grown. For table use, you have to wait till it has attained a golden yellow color.
Steps involved pineapple plantation
Pineapple farming involves a series of to be followed to ensure a good fruit.
Earthing: Pineapple is a hollow root plant. If they don’t get sturdy support, they tend to bend. To render support to the fruit the soil is moved towards the trench.
Weeding: The most common weeds in pineapple farming are nutgrass and hariyali. It is done to make sure the good growth of the pineapple fruit.
Mulching: When grown as a rain-fed crop means, dependent on rainwater. It is an important step. The idea behind this is to store water for an adequate water supply.
Ratoon crop: Rotation crop farming is generally practiced in India. The cropped part of the fruit is used as a base for the next farming cycle.
Unusual behavior in pineapples
This is a big reason to worry, as to remain in demand pineapples must have to be perfect in taste and appearance. Else they get neglected.
Though pineapple farming is free from any sort of infection and all still there are few challenges.
More than one crown: In some cases, the fruit might develop more than one crown. In this, it gets de-shaped. Broad from the upper portion and pointed from below. Making them non-eligible for canning.
Slips collar: This happens when a large number of slips appears from the base. It leads to small-sized fruit with too many slips overlapping.
This lovely crown shaped fruit is adored not only for its taste and appearance but also has some benefits as well.
Rich in Vitamin C: It is enriched with Vitamin C which indicates a capacity to curb heart and joint diseases.
Rich in fiber content: This helps in keeping the intestines healthy.
Helps in removing excess mucus.
Helps in weight loss.
Conclusion
You need not worry about the profitability of pineapple farming. It has already made deep roots in the market. They have a loud market domestically or internationally.
Sold on huge margins, still have the monopoly in the market. Can be consumed in multifarious ways. Jams, fruit, jelly, spread, canned, and candies loveable in all forms.
Pineapple waste serves as fodder for the animals. Enjoys fame all over the world. The production cost is low as compared to other farming’s.
Pineapple needs no introduction. No separate marketing strategy is required.
What else you need!!! Just go ahead with your pineapple farming. Surely, you can create magic with your pineapple farming.
