Delay in mustard sowing could lead to reduction in crop yield

Mustard is considered a major crop for farmers during the Rabi season. Farmers can achieve good yields by cultivating this crop, but selecting the correct sowing time is extremely essential. Often, farmers are unable to sow mustard on time due to fields not being vacant or delays in harvesting other crops. This delay in sowing can adversely affect everything from plant development to the grain formation process.

If sowing is delayed, the plant does not get sufficient time for its development. This directly impacts the development of branches, flowers, and pods. Furthermore, when the crop flowers and the grain-filling process begins, the rising temperatures in the environment due to the delay in sowing start to take effect. Due to the increasing temperature, the grains cannot develop properly, resulting in smaller grain sizes. This reduces not only the size of the grain but also the number of grains per plant and its weight, which ultimately reduces the total crop yield.

The appropriate sowing period for mustard depends on the region, weather, and the variety being used. Generally, the month of October is considered very favourable for mustard sowing in many parts of North and Central India. In some areas, early sowing begins from the last week of September. If sowing cannot be done on time for any reason, some special varieties can be sown in the first week of November. However, if common varieties are sown too late, it affects their production. For this, farmers should visit their local agriculture department or Krishi Vigyan Kendra to obtain information regarding the appropriate variety.

Delay in sowing can also increase other risks. In certain circumstances, the incidence of pests such as aphids (Mahua/Chepa) and diseases like white rust may increase in late-sown crops. Therefore, farmers should endeavour to complete the mustard sowing within the scheduled time.

Field preparation is also very important to achieve good production of the mustard crop. Firstly, the soil of the field should be made loose and level. Water should not accumulate in the field, as waterlogging can damage the seeds and plants. Sowing should always be done in rows. Generally, the distance between two rows should be approximately 30 to 45 cm and the distance between two plants should be 10 to 15 cm.

The quantity of seed may also vary according to the variety used and the farming method. In irrigated areas, approximately 4 to 5 kg of seed is generally required per hectare. Certified seeds should always be used before sowing, and seed treatment should be done as per the requirement following the advice of agricultural experts. Additionally, fertilizers and fertility-enhancing substances should be added based on soil testing. Mustard crops also require sulfur; therefore, if there is a deficiency in the soil, it should be used in appropriate quantities.