Isabgol Agricultural Practices
The cultivation of isabgol requires bio-active organic fertilizers and cool and dry weather during its growth period. Although the plant requires a pH range of 7.6 to 8.4, it can also tolerate low soil salinity. The cost and profit of growing isabgol depend on a number of factors. Listed below are some important tips for successful cultivation. They are not meant to replace conventional agricultural practices.
Is Isabgol a Sensitive Crop?
Isabgol is a sensitive crop and requires special attention in a variety of climate, soil and management practices. It grows best in cool, dry weather during the winter. It is sensitive to extreme temperature variations and cloudy weather. The best temperature range for isabgol is between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. However, some environmental conditions can also cause isabgol to fail. Hence, proper crop management and seed treatment are necessary to maximize yields.
The emergence of high-fibre breakfast cereals and claims for cholesterol-lowering properties have increased interest in isabgol. Both black cumin and isabgol are tolerant of moderate water stress, but their sensitivity varies according to their developmental stages. Therefore, matching the developmental stage with the environmental conditions is essential for maximizing yields. If this is not possible, it may be necessary to use alternative crop species for this crop.
Does Isabgol Need Cool and Dry Weather During Growth Period?
Isabgol is a unique, drought-tolerant perennial herb native to India. It is also known as Indian Spogel Seed, Ashwakarnabeeja, and Esphopgol. Its seeds are small, boat-shaped, white, and have a mucilage content of approximately 50 per cent. Its leaves are erect and resemble those of a lily. This plant has been cultivated in Pakistan since before the partition.
For Isabgol cultivation, sandy loam soil is ideal. It should also be well-drained. If the soil is poorly drained, do not plant the crop. It is best to cultivate it in larger fields. To identify the required nutrients, perform a soil test. You should also monitor crop yields. It is best to plant seeds in rows about 15 cm apart. Isabgol requires 8 to 10 irrigations during its growth period.
Isabgol is propagated through seed. This crop has a cool season and is grown during the Rabi season in India. During the early vegetative stage, farmers should broadcast the seeds fifteen centimetres apart. During the early vegetative stage of the crop, two to three hand weeding sessions are required. This must be done after three weeks of sowing the seeds.
Does Isabgol Need Bio-Active Organic Fertilizers?
A sustainable method for the production of isabgol has been developed. Bioactive organic fertilizers (BAC) are derived from isabgol straw biomass. The nutrient-rich straw biomass is then incorporated into a composting process with natural sources of P and K. This process increases the available nutrient content of the soil and improves the yield of seed, husk, and mucilage. Bio-active compost is compared with conventional organics and chemical fertilizers.
Isabgol is renowned for its cooling, laxative, and diuretic properties. It also reduces cholesterol levels and controls diabetes. In many countries, water is a limited resource for biomass production. In some recent significant studies, scientists have discovered that drought-stressed plants produce secondary metabolites that are important for the production of isabgol.
In Conclusion
Although the expense of isabgol farming has grown over time, prices have stayed constant. Isabgol is a natural substance with several health advantages. A white fibrous substance called psyllium husk (Sat-Isabgol) is made from the plant’s psyllium seeds’ outer covering. In your diet, psyllium husk offers a great source of fibre. This organic fibre source is a fantastic supplement to any diet. And these factors influence the cost and profit of isabgol cultivation.
