Botanical Name: Trifolium alexandrinumChromosome Number: 2n = 16
Origin:
Berseem, also known as Egyptian clover, originated in Egypt.
Geographical Distribution:
Berseem is widely distributed in various parts of the world, including Egypt, India, Pakistan, Sudan, and the Mediterranean region.
Economic Importance:
Berseem is an important forage crop, primarily used as fodder for livestock. It is highly nutritious and palatable, providing a good source of protein for animals. Additionally, berseem can be used as a green manure crop, improving soil fertility and nitrogen content.
Soil and Climatic Requirements:
Berseem grows well in a wide range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clayey soils. However, it prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It requires a mild climate with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F) for optimal growth.
Seed Rate:
The recommended seed rate for berseem is around 25 to 30 kilograms per hectare.
Spacing:
The recommended spacing for berseem is 30 to 45 centimeters between rows, with a plant-to-plant spacing of 10 to 15 centimeters.
Seed Treatment:
Berseem seeds can be treated with fungicides or biocontrol agents to protect against seed-borne diseases. It is advisable to follow the recommendations of local agricultural authorities for specific seed treatment methods.
Varieties:
There are several varieties of berseem available, and the suitability of a particular variety may depend on the local agro-climatic conditions. Some popular varieties include Pioneer, Giza 1, Giza 10, Giza 20, and Jawahar.
Cultural Practices:
The Berseem crop (Trifolium alexandrinum) is an important forage legume cultivated in various regions around the world. While cultural practices can vary depending on the specific agricultural practices and geographical location, here are some common cultural practices associated with the cultivation of Berseem crop:
1. Seed Selection: The first step in cultivating Berseem is to select high-quality seeds from a reliable source. The seeds should be healthy, free from disease, and of a recommended variety suitable for the local climate and soil conditions.
2. Land Preparation: Before sowing the seeds, the land needs to be properly prepared. This involves plowing or tilling the soil to loosen it and remove any weeds or debris. The soil may also be leveled to ensure uniform distribution of water during irrigation.
3. Sowing: Berseem seeds are typically sown in rows or broadcasted evenly across the prepared field. The seeding rate may vary depending on the purpose of cultivation, but generally, it ranges from 20 to 40 kilograms per hectare.
4. Irrigation: Berseem requires adequate moisture for its growth and development. Irrigation is essential, especially during the dry season or when there is a lack of rainfall. Proper irrigation scheduling and water management practices are crucial to prevent waterlogging or drought stress.
5. Fertilization: Berseem crops respond well to proper fertilization. Soil testing should be conducted to determine the nutrient requirements. Based on the results, organic matter and appropriate mineral fertilizers, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, can be applied to ensure optimal growth.
6. Weed Control: Weeds can compete with Berseem for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Weed control practices, such as manual weeding, mulching, or the judicious use of herbicides, are employed to minimize weed interference and ensure the healthy growth of the crop.
7. Disease and Pest Management: Berseem crops are susceptible to various diseases and pests. Regular monitoring is necessary to identify any signs of disease or pest infestation. Integrated pest management (IPM) techniques, including cultural, biological, and chemical control methods, may be employed to mitigate the impact of pests and diseases.
8. Cutting and Harvesting: Berseem is typically harvested when it reaches the desired stage of growth, which is usually at the pre-bloom or early flowering stage. The crop is cut close to the ground using sickles or mowers. After cutting, it is left to dry in the field for a few hours to reduce moisture content.
9. Storage and Utilization: Once harvested, Berseem can be stored as hay or silage for feeding livestock during periods of low forage availability. Proper storage techniques, such as baling or ensiling, should be employed to preserve the nutritional quality of the crop.
10. Crop Rotation: To maintain soil fertility and prevent the buildup of diseases and pests, crop rotation practices are often followed. Berseem may be rotated with other crops, such as cereals or legumes, to ensure sustainable agricultural practices.
Yield:
Under favorable conditions and good management practices, berseem can yield around 15 to 20 tons per hectare of green fodder. The actual yield may vary depending on various factors such as climate, soil fertility, variety, and cultivation practices.
