07 Jan Production technology of Amaranthus (Amaranthus sp.)
चौलाई का उत्पादन प्रौद्योगिकी Amaranthus (चौलाई) is a primarily used as a pot herb. It is a most common leafy vegetable grown during summer and rainy season in India. The fresh tender leaves and stem give delicious preparation on cooking. It belongs to the family Amarantaceae. Most of the amaranthus species are originated in India or Indo-China region. Among the leafy types A.tricolour L. is the main cultivated species in India. Other cultivated species of amaranthus are A. blitum and A. tristis it is more popular in south India. Climate and Soil for amaranthus cultivation Amaranthus is a warm season crop adapted to the conditions of hot, humid tropics. However, it can also be grown under temperate climate during summer. It belongs to C-4 group of plants and has efficient photosynthetic abilities and responds best to full sunlight, Amaranthus grows in every type of soil but the best crop is harvested from fertile loamy soils. The proper drainage system in the field is necessary as the crop is susceptible to water logging. The best soil pH range is between 5.5 and 7.5 but some of the strains are successfully grown in soils with the pH up to 10. The soil should be brought to a fine tilth by ploughing 3-4 times followed by planking. Varieties...