Guar (Cyamopsis Tetragonoloba) is a legume native to India and Pakistan. It is a drought and heat tolerant plant prized for its guar gum, a natural thickener used in a variety of food and industrial applications.
1. Guar cultivation
Guar can be grown in a wide variety of soil types, but it prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. The crop requires warm temperatures and can tolerate moderate salinity.
2. Land preparation
- Deep plowing: Deep plow the field to a depth of 20–25 cm to loosen the soil and improve water infiltration.
- Alignment. Level the ground to ensure even water distribution.
- Introduction of organic substances. Apply organic matter such as manure or compost at a rate of 10-15 tons per hectare. This will increase the soil's fertility and its ability to hold water.
3. Sowing
- Timing: Sow guar seeds in late spring or early summer when the soil temperature is at least 18°C.
- Seed rate: Use a seed rate of 10–15 kg per hectare.
- Spacing: Sow guar seeds in rows 30-45cm apart.
- Seed treatment. Treat guar seeds with fungicides to protect them from fungal diseases.
4. Irrigation
Guar is a drought-tolerant crop but requires irrigation for optimal growth and yield. Apply irrigation water at intervals of 10-15 days, depending on soil moisture conditions.
5. Fertilization
Nitrogen fertilizers are applied at the rate of 20-30 kg per hectare during sowing. After the emergence of seedlings, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers are applied at the rate of 40-50 kg per hectare.
6. Weed control
Hand weeding is the most effective weed control method for guar. Alternatively, pre-emergence herbicides can be used.
7. Pest and disease control
Monitor guar plants for pests and diseases and implement appropriate control measures as necessary. Common pests include aphids, pod borers and whiteflies. Common diseases include rust, wilt and rot.
8. Harvest
Guar is ready to harvest when the pods turn brown and the seeds harden. The harvest can be harvested by hand or using a combine.
9. Profit potential
The average guar yield is about 10-15 quintals per hectare.
10. Economic significance
Guar is an important crop for farmers as it provides good income. Guar gum is a valuable commodity with a wide range of uses.
Additional tips for successfully growing guar
- Choose high-yielding guar varieties.
- Use certified seeds to ensure disease resistance.
- Maintain crop rotation to avoid soil-borne diseases.
- Monitor soil moisture and apply irrigation water if necessary.
- Effectively control weeds to prevent crop losses.
- Protect guar from pests and diseases.
By following these guidelines, farmers will be able to successfully grow guar and benefit economically from this valuable crop.