Grain legumes, summer and winter, are a major part of the northern grain belt farming landscape. The benefits they bring are numerous but there are several practical parameters that need to be met to ensure that crops like mungbean are profitable.
Assessment of soil moisture: For dry land crops, correct starting soil moisture assessment (at least 60 cm) is paramount. Every future decision made will be influenced by this soil moisture level. These decisions cost money and the lower the soil moisture at planting the higher the reliance on in-crop rain with a corresponding increase risk to production.
Field selection: Careful consideration should be given to topography, soil type, residual herbicide carry-over, and likely weed burdens. A well-structured soil, that is fairly level, free of sticks and stones, is very beneficial for all legume crops. Grass weed control in mungbean is relatively simple, but broadleaf weed control in mungbean can be expensive, disastrous or both if you get it wrong.
Soil nutrition and fertilizer requirements: A simple layered soil test down to 60 cms with emphasis on assessing the problems of stratification and attending to below critical levels for Phosphorus, Potassium, Sulphur and Zinc plus knowledge of any hostile sub soil is definitely required. Be sure to consider potential VAM levels when determining fertilizer requirements.
Seed quality and inoculation and seeding equipment: The importance of achieving an even strike and even maturity cannot be over-emphasised. Taking extra care at planting can produce more uniform flowering, making insect management and harvest management more straightforward.
It is an absolute necessity to use quality seed and to be just as careful when applying the seed inoculant. Ensure an even planting depth across the entire machine, and be sure to place the seed into moist soil at a depth of 30 – 50 mm.