Agronomic Interventions for Higher Water use Efficiency in Greengram (Vigna radiata): An Overview

Abstract

Agronomic manipulations are imperative for apposite growth of crop leading to higher yields. Various management practices like seed rate, planting time and method, plant population, intercultural practices, weed management, fertilizers and irrigation application, intercropping, mulch application for soil moisture conservation, etc. results in increased water use efficiency (WUE) of the crop. Also selection of crop which necessities lesser water usage for crop growth encourages diversification. Greengram is paramount preference for areas with scarcity of good quality water. Being rich in protein content and minerals, it serves the purpose of healthy regimen. Timely sown crop results in better growth due to favorable climatic conditions. Whereas late sown crop is adversely affected by pest attack, temperature fluctuation etc. ensuing reduced water use efficiency and yield diminution. Planting method, plant population and intercultural operations are essential in agronomic point of view. Selection of apt irrigation regimes directly effects water use efficiency in any field study. As crop productivity is equal with water productivity, the efficient irrigation schedule assures water saving without affecting the crop yields. Because, where no irrigations are given, the water use may be low by the crop but, this may affect crop yields. Use of recommended fertilizers may facilitate the use of irrigation water by crop for its better growth and improved WUE. Insertion of low water requiring crop as intercrop can unswervingly increase water productivity. Applying mulch conserve moisture as its use lowers evaporation from soil surface. Usage of weed management practices conserves irrigation water as weeds compete with crop plants for water and nutrients. Wherefore, the present review will reckon upon the impact of innumerable agronomic interventions in increasing water productivity.