Blog Details

Introduction

Chickpea is an important rabi-season pulse crop that requires very little water. Applying sprays at the right time and according to the growth stage can increase yield by 20–30%. Just like pigeon pea (tur/arhar) requires three critical sprays for higher productivity, chickpea also requires stage-wise spraying at four key stages.

This blog explains which sprays to apply in each of the four main stages of chickpea growth, what inputs to use, and how they benefit the crop.

Four Important Growth Stages of Chickpea

1. Vegetative growth stage

2. Branching (futwa) stage

3. Flowering stage

4. Pod-filling stage

Proper nutrition, pest control and disease management in all these stages help in stronger growth, increased branching and significant yield enhancement.

1. Vegetative / Branching Stage (20–25 Days)

This is one of the most crucial stages for establishing strong crop growth. Proper management at this stage determines the overall success of the later stages.

Importance of Topping

Topping (removing the apical bud) at 20–25 days encourages more branching and strengthens the plant.
If topping is not possible, the spray schedule below gives excellent results.

Spray Schedule (for Vegetative Growth & Increased Branching)

(A) Spray for Growth and Branching

• Top Up – 50 ml

• 19:19:19 – 125 g

This foliar mixture provides balanced nutrition, enhances branching and improves vegetative growth.

(B) Insecticide (for Caterpillar/Pest Control)

Use any one of the following:

• Panda Super – 40 ml
  or

• Imaan – 15 g

These help control leaf-eating caterpillars, stem borers and other foliage-damaging pests.

(C) Fungicide (for Wilt & Fungal Disease Management)

If wilt, yellowing or fungal symptoms appear, use any one of the following:

• Pixal – 40 g
  or

• Kriptox – 40 g
  or

• Aliette – 40 g

These improve root growth, control fungal infections and help the plant recover quickly.

Conclusion

The vegetative and branching stage is highly critical for achieving higher chickpea yields. Proper nutrition, pest control and disease management at this stage ensure healthy growth, more branches and better flowering and pod development.

Stage-wise spraying can increase chickpea yield by 20–30%. Hence, timely and accurate spraying is essential.