Influence of dates of sowing on growth and yield dynamics of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.)

Abstract

Aim: To identify the best date of sowing and irrigation to get the highest seed production under Gangetic old alluvial plains of West Bengal. Materials and Methods: An investigation on the effect of date of sowing in fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L) was carried out at the Malda Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Ratua, Malda, West Bengal during the year 2014-2015 in the months of November to March. The fenugreek was shown in five different dates, namely, D1, D2, D3, D4, and D5 at different days interval. The respective dates were 2nd November, 9th November, 16th November, 23rd November, and 28th December. Sowing date had significant effects on seed yield and its components. The experiment was laid out in factorial RBD replicated twice. Results and Discussion: The results obtained from the study showed a significant variation with different dates of sowing. Projected seed yield/hectare was maximum (1.4 t/ha) on 2nd November. Conclusion: It was evident from the results that the date of sowing had a significant influence on phenology, growth, and yield of fenugreek. It may be concluded from the results that to obtain higher seed yield fenugreek should be sown earlier at 2nd November.