Soil enrichment and nitrogen fixation
Dhaincha develops active root nodules hosting Rhizobium bacteria that convert atmospheric nitrogen into plant-available forms.
- Fixes substantial atmospheric nitrogen directly into the root zone, reducing synthetic fertilizer dependence.
- Incorporates 15 to 25 tonnes of green organic biomass per hectare when turned under at 45 to 50 days of growth.
- Improves soil physical structure, enhances water-holding capacity, and stimulates beneficial microbial populations.
- Tolerates waterlogging, drought, and high electrical conductivity, making it suitable for difficult soils.
Sowing window, seed rate, and cultivation practices
Proper agronomic management ensures fast vegetative emergence and uniform ground coverage.
- Sowing Window: April to June, immediately following rabi crop harvests or with early monsoon showers.
- Seed Rate: 20 to 25 kg per hectare for green manuring; sow broadcast or with a seed drill after light pre-sowing irrigation.
- Seed Treatment: Inoculate with Rhizobium culture and treat with Trichoderma to promote rapid nodulation and protect seedlings.
- Irrigation: Requires minimal irrigation; 1 to 2 light irrigations suffice until monsoon rains arrive.
Incorporation timing and field preparation
Incorporating the crop at the right physiological stage ensures quick decomposition and nutrient release.
- Incorporate into the soil at 45 to 50 days after sowing, strictly before the stems turn fibrous or woody at flowering.
- Use a disc harrow or rotavator to shred and mix the green foliage into the topsoil.
- Maintain standing water in the field for 7 to 10 days to facilitate anaerobic microbial decomposition before transplanting paddy.
Official source
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ICAR - Indian Institute of Soil Science ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the primary agricultural purpose of growing Dhaincha?
Dhaincha is grown primarily as a green manure crop to improve soil organic carbon, fix biological nitrogen, and reclaim alkaline soils.
When should Dhaincha be incorporated into the soil?
Incorporate Dhaincha at 45 to 50 days after sowing, when the plants are succulent and tender before flowering.
Can Dhaincha help reclaim alkaline or sodic soils?
Yes, Dhaincha produces organic acids during green decomposition that lower soil pH and help displace exchangeable sodium.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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