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| Wednesday, January 03, 2007 |
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Frequently Asked Questions - Pulse Crop Seeding Rates and Rolling
What is the proper seeding rate for pulse crops? To get an answer to your own question, click here
What is the proper seeding rate for pulses? It depends on the target population for the crop being grown and the seed size of the variety planting. For example, the target plant population for dry pea is 75 - 85 plants per square meter (7- 8 per square foot). Plant population in these ranges will provide better competition against weeds and will give higher yields. Research has indicated that thinner stands (55 - 70 plants per square meter) can produce high yields if weed control is excellent. Plant populations higher than the recommended density may increase the risk of foliar disease infection, especially in wetter growing seasons. Target plant populations for other pulse crops are:
Proper seeding rates also depend upon seed size of the sample or variety you are planting. The Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food Publication Varieties of Grain Crops provides suggested average seed size of pulse varieties. The following formula will assist you in determining the target seeding rate for pulse crops:
For example, the large seeded yellow pea variety Alfetta has an average seed size of 290 grams per 1,000 seeds. The seeding rate is calculated below.
When should pulse crops be rolled? Lentils Lentil fields should be rolled to provide a smooth and level surface for harvest. Land rolling can be done before the crop emerges, but can leave the soil vulnerable to wind erosion if the surface is dry. Research indicates that land rolling after emergence of the lentils can be successfully performed up to the five to seven-node stage without significant yield loss. Land rolling past this stage can damage plants, increase the spread of foliar diseases and reduce yield. Best results are obtained if rolling is done when plants are slightly wilted and the soil surface is dry. Rolling should not be done on wet soils, or when the crop is damp or stressed by extreme heat, frost or herbicide application. Peas A land roller can be used in dry pea fields to provide a smooth and level surface for harvest. Land rolling can be done before or after the crop emerges. Research done by Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development indicates that post emergent land rolling can be done up to the five-node stage without significant yield loss. Land rolling beyond this stage can damage plants, increase the spread of foliar diseases and reduce yields. Best results were obtained if rolling was completed before the pea crop emerged. Rolling should not be done on wet soils, or when the crop is damp or stressed by extreme heat, frost or herbicide application. Chickpeas Land rollers are less beneficial in chickpea production than in lentil or pea production. Chickpeas do not usually lodge and plants are taller. Rolling should only be done before the crop emerges. Post-emergent rolling is not recommended, as it may spread disease, such as ascochyta, and cause mechanical injury to the stiffer stems of the chickpea seedlings. For more information contact:
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