Is it necessary to apply nitrogen to pigeonpea crop?
Pigeonpea is capable of utilizing atmospheric nitrogen for its growth through nodulation with the help of a type of bacteria. But the bacterial nodules do not develop on the roots until the plants are 15 to 20 days. Hence, during the early stages when the plants require easily available nitrogen for their good growth, a starter dose of nitrogen is important. It is recommended to apply a starter dose of 15 to 20 kg N per ha at sowing time preferably by drilling the fertilizer along with phosphorus.
