Pigeonpea Genotypes: Generally local cultivars of medium- and late-maturing types are cultivated. These cultivars are: Suitable for single cropping sequence only. Incur greater risks of being exposed to abiotic stresses - droughts and frosts. Do not fit into intensive cultivation system. Hence, a number of extra short duration (90 days)and short-duration (120 days) genotypes were developed recently. Table. 14 A list of a few pigeonpea varieties of different maturity groups are shown below: Maturity Duration Genotype Extra Short Duration (120-140 days) ICPL 87 (Pragati), ICPL 151 (Jagriti), Prabhat, ICPL 88039 (VL Arhar 1) Short duration (140-170 days) Pusa Ageti, T21, HY2, Pusa 84, NPP 670 Medium duration (160-190 days) C11, HY1, HY3A, Mukta, BDN1, Maruti, NP(WR) 15, Asha, Laksmi Late duration (180-270 days) Bahar, ICPL 366, ICP 7035

Seed quality

Use seed produced in isolation and subjected to roguing. Do not use seed stored for more than two seasons. Use the seed produced during the previous season. Grade and use bolder seed. Bolder seeds give better germination and result in more vigorous seedlings.

Seedling:

In the traditional practice, seeds are sown broadcast and then a blade harrow is used to cover the seed. This practice results in uneven sowing depth and poor emergence. A uniform seeding depth is usually obtained when bullock-drawn or mechanical seed drills are used. Seeds sown at shallower depths may be exposed to water deficits if dry weather persists soon after sowing.                               Machine                                         Manual