Rabi Pea Crop:
The botanical name for pea is Pisum sativum.
Pea plants have a diploid chromoso 14.
Origin:
The pea (Pisum sativum) is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region. It has been cultivated for thousands of years and is one of the oldest cultivated crops.
Geographical Distribution:
Pea cultivation is widespread across the world, with major producers including China, Russia, India, Canada, and the United States. It can be grown in a variety of climates and regions.
Economic Importance:
Peas are an important crop both for commercial production and home gardening. They are consumed as a vegetable and are also processed for canning and freezing. Peas are rich in protein, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a valuable crop for human consumption and animal feed.
Soil and Climatic Requirements:
Peas prefer well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. They grow best in cool, temperate climates, with optimum temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Peas are frost-tolerant and can withstand temperatures as low as -5°C (23°F) during the vegetative stage.
Seed Rate and Spacing:
The recommended seed rate for pea cultivation is around 90 to 100 kilograms per hectare. The spacing between rows should be 30 to 45 centimeters, while the distance between plants within a row should be 5 to 10 centimeters.
Seed Treatment:
Seeds can be treated with fungicides to protect against seed-borne diseases. Additionally, inoculation with nitrogen-fixing bacteria (Rhizobium) is recommended to enhance nitrogen fixation and improve plant growth.
Varieties:
There are several varieties of peas available, including early-maturing, semi-early, and late-maturing types. The choice of variety depends on the specific growing conditions and market requirements. Some popular pea varieties include Arkel, Bonneville, Rachna, Harsh, and Pusa Pragati.
Cultural Practices:
Here are some general cultural practices for pea cultivation:
1. Land Preparation: Prepare the field by plowing and harrowing to obtain a fine and weed-free seedbed.
2. Sowing: Peas are sown directly in the field. The best time for sowing varies depending on the region, but it usually falls between October and November for rabi cultivation. Sow seeds at the recommended depth of 3 to 5 centimeters.
3. Irrigation: Peas require regular irrigation, especially during flowering and pod formation stages. Adequate soil moisture is essential for good crop development.
4. Weed Control: Timely and effective weed control is important. Manual weeding or the use of herbicides can be employed to manage weeds.
5. Disease and Pest Control: Monitor the crop regularly for signs of diseases and pests such as powdery mildew, aphids, and pod borers. Take appropriate measures, including the use of resistant varieties and appropriate pesticides, if necessary.
Yield:
Pea yields can vary depending on various factors such as variety, agronomic practices, and environmental conditions. On average, yields can range from 1.5 to 3.5 tons per hectare, but higher yields are achievable with proper management and favorable conditions.
