Land Preparation

• Plough the land thoroughly, incorporate FYM @ 20 t/ha.
• Liming should be done so as to maintain a pH range of 5.8- 6.5.
• Seedlings can be transplanted in flat beds at the rate of one seedling per hill.
• A spacing of 15 – 20 cm between rows and 10 cm between plants should be given.

• The nursery should be raised in a rain shelter.
• Seeds can be sown in nursery beds or pro-trays during September.
• Incorporate well rotten compost mixed with Trichoderma in the nursery beds.
• Six to eight week old seedlings having 0.6 - 0.8 cm collar girth can be transplanted to the main field during October – November.
• About 1500 – 2000 seedlings will be required to plant one cent (40 m²) area in the main field.
• Planting on ridges or raised beds can also be adopted to ensure good drainage.
• Gap filling if necessary may be done at 10-15 days after planting.