Explore essential aspects of black kalonji (Nigella sativa) cultivation, including climate, soil, planting, harvest, and pest management. Challenge your knowledge of agronomic practices for optimal kalonji yield and quality.
Which is the most suitable season for sowing black kalonji seeds in subtropical regions for best yield?
Explanation: Rabi (winter) is ideal for kalonji due to its preference for cool temperatures during early growth. Kharif season's heavy rains can harm seedlings. Summer is often too hot for optimal germination. Late autumn sowing provides insufficient time before low winter temperatures set in.
Which soil type is best suited for the successful cultivation of black kalonji?
Explanation: Well-drained loamy soil provides the ideal balance of nutrients and moisture retention for kalonji. Clayey soils can cause water stagnation, saline soils negatively affect growth, and waterlogged sandy soils lack nutrients and adequate water holding capacity.
What is the recommended seed rate per hectare for achieving optimal plant population in black kalonji farming?
Explanation: A seed rate of 8–10 kg/ha allows for proper spacing and vigorous plant growth. Higher rates like 20–25 kg or 15–18 kg can cause overcrowding, while 1–2 kg/ha may result in insufficient stand density.
What is a common indication that black kalonji crops are ready to harvest?
Explanation: When fruit capsules turn brown and dry, kalonji seeds have matured. Leaves turning dark green signals healthy vegetative growth, not maturity. Vigorous flowering is an earlier stage, and seeds do not turn orange at maturity.
Which pest is a significant concern during black kalonji cultivation and may require monitoring and control?
Explanation: Aphids commonly infest kalonji crops, sucking sap and transmitting diseases. Bollworm typically affects cotton, golden apple snail is a rice pest, and armyworm is more problematic in cereals rather than kalonji.