When is the right time to plant chickpeas: tips for gardeners who are not familiar with this crop
Like its legume cousins, chickpeas are high in protein and carbohydrates. In addition to their nutritional value, they boast cholesterol-lowering properties and provide potassium and magnesium.
An expert of the online publication BelNovosti, agronomist, landscape designer Anastasia Kovrizhnykh told what those who decided to grow this crop on their own plot should do.
Chickpeas are planted when the soil warms up to at least 10-15 degrees, after which the plant will need a long, warm growing season.
The seeds should be placed in the soil to a depth of about 2.5 cm. The distance between plants should be from 7.5 to 15 cm, while the distance between rows should be from 46 to 61 cm. After planting, chickpeas need to be watered well. Continue to keep the soil moist until germination.
Gardeners living in cool climates should start chickpeas indoors 2 to 4 weeks before the estimated last frost date.
For this purpose, biodegradable coconut or paper pots should be used.
With their help, you can transfer seedlings into open ground without damaging their roots, since chickpeas react extremely painfully to the transplant procedure.
A large amount of organic compost should be added to the beds where chickpeas are planned to be grown, and heavy soil can be lightened with sand or the same compost.
