Desi chickpea: How to Grow, Harvest, Fertilize, and Use Desi chickpea

Growing Desi Chickpeas: My Journey and Lessons Learned

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As a seasoned gardener, I've had the pleasure of growing a variety of crops in my backyard. One of my favorite crops to grow is Desi chickpeas, also known as Desi chana or chana masali. In this article, I'll share my experience of growing Desi chickpeas, from sowing the seeds to harvesting the crop.

What are Desi Chickpeas?

Desi chickpeas are a type of chickpea that is widely grown in the Indian subcontinent. They are known for their distinctive flavor, texture, and nutritional benefits. Desi chickpeas are also rich in protein, fiber, and various essential minerals.

Why Grow Desi Chickpeas?

There are several reasons why I wanted to grow Desi chickpeas. Firstly, they are a staple crop in many Indian households, and I wanted to experience the joy of growing a crop that is loved by many. Secondly, Desi chickpeas are relatively easy to grow, making them a great crop for beginners. Finally, they are a great source of protein and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to a healthy diet.

Preparing the Soil

Before sowing the Desi chickpea seeds, I made sure to prepare the soil. Chickpeas prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. I added compost and manure to the soil to give it the necessary nutrients.

Sowing the Seeds

I sowed the Desi chickpea seeds in late spring, when the weather was warm and sunny. I planted the seeds about 1 inch deep and 1 inch apart in rows that were 3 feet apart. I watered the seeds regularly and made sure the soil was consistently moist.

Managing Pests and Diseases

As the crop grew, I had to manage pests and diseases that threatened to destroy my crop. I used natural methods such as introducing beneficial insects and spraying neem oil to control pests. I also used fungicides to prevent fungal diseases.

Fertilizing the Crop

I fertilized the crop with a balanced fertilizer that contained nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. I also added a source of calcium, such as crushed eggshells, to promote healthy plant growth.

Training the Vines

Desi chickpeas are a climbing crop, so I used a trellis to support the vines as they grew. This helped to keep the vines off the ground and made it easier to harvest the crop.

Harvesting the Crop

After about 6-8 weeks, the Desi chickpeas were ready to be harvested. I cut the vines, leaving about 2 inches of stem attached to the plant. I then dried the vines in a warm, dry place to reduce the moisture content.

Drying and Storage

Once the vines were dry, I stored them in a cool, dry place to preserve the crop. I also dried the chickpeas themselves, either by spreading them out in the sun or using a food dehydrator.

Cooking and Enjoying

Finally, I was able to enjoy the fruits of my labor! I cooked the Desi chickpeas with some onions, garlic, and spices to make a delicious and nutritious meal.

Lessons Learned

Growing Desi chickpeas was a rewarding experience that taught me several lessons. Firstly, it taught me the importance of patience and persistence. Chickpeas take time to mature, and there are many factors that can affect their growth. Secondly, it taught me the importance of soil health. Chickpeas prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Finally, it taught me the importance of crop rotation. Chickpeas are a legume, so they can fix nitrogen in the soil, making it easier to grow other crops.

Conclusion

Growing Desi chickpeas was a fun and rewarding experience that taught me several lessons. If you're interested in growing your own Desi chickpeas, I hope this article has been helpful. Remember to prepare the soil, sow the seeds at the right time, manage pests and diseases, and fertilize the crop regularly. With a little patience and care, you'll be enjoying delicious and nutritious Desi chickpeas in no time.