Fertilizer Management in Sponge Gourd

For a good yield of sponge gourd, ensure proper fertilizer management. Sponge gourd, also known as ‘torai’ in some regions, belongs to the gourd family and is a staple in Indian kitchens. It is rich in nutrients and easy to cultivate. Sponge gourd is grown in various parts of the country, and proper fertilizer management is essential for its cultivation. If you are also growing sponge gourd, here’s all the information you need to achieve a good yield through effective fertilizer management.

Benefits of Using Fertilizers in Sponge Gourd

Faster Growth: The use of fertilizers helps supply essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potash to the plants, which accelerates the growth of leaves and roots.

Stronger Roots: Fertilizers like phosphorus strengthen the plant roots, allowing them to absorb water and nutrients more efficiently.

Increased Number of Flowers and Fruits: Proper fertilizer management increases the number of flowers and fruits on the plants, thereby improving crop yield.

Better Quality: When plants receive the right amount of essential nutrients, the quality of the fruits improves. As a result, they become more delicious and nutritious, fetching better prices in the market.

Improved Disease Resistance: The correct use of fertilizers enhances the plants' ability to resist diseases, keeping them protected from pest attacks and infections.

Fertilizer Management While Preparing the Field

• During the tilling of the field, 8-10 tons of well-decomposed cow dung manure should be used per acre.
• Additionally, apply 2-3 tons of vermicompost per acre.
• While preparing the field, use 70 kilograms of NPK 10:26:26 fertilizer along with 25 kilograms of urea and 12 kilograms of sulphur as a basal dose per acre.
• Also, apply 4 kilograms of 'DeHaat Starter' per acre.

Use of Fertilizers at Different Stages of Crop Growth

• After 10-15 days of sowing, use 2 milliliters of DeHaat Akillis GA per liter of water.
• During the flowering stage of the plants, spray 5 grams of MKP 00.52.34 (DeHaat NutriOne - Mono Potassium Phosphate) + 1 gram of Chelated Boron.
• During the growth stage of the plants, spray 2 milliliters of DeHaat Boost Master per liter of water.
• To enhance the quality of Nenua fruits, spray 1 gram of Chelated Calcium + 1 gram of 20% Boron per liter of water.

Things to Keep in Mind While Using Fertilizers for Crops

• Quantity of Fertilizers: When using fertilizers for the cucumber crop, special attention should be paid to the quantity. Excessive use of fertilizers can reduce soil fertility and adversely affect plants. On the other hand, using insufficient quantities may not provide plants with the necessary nutrients, thereby hindering their growth.
• Balanced Use of Organic and Chemical Fertilizers: It is essential to use a balanced approach with both organic and chemical fertilizers. Excessive use of only chemical fertilizers can harm soil fertility, so organic fertilizers should also be utilized.
• Proper Irrigation Management: Irrigation is necessary after applying fertilizers. This helps the fertilizers reach the plant roots. Therefore, proper management of irrigation is essential, especially when using chemical fertilizers. Overwatering can wash away fertilizers and deprive the crop of sufficient nutrients. Using fertilizers with a drip irrigation system allows nutrients to reach the roots directly and minimizes wastage.
• Soil Testing: Soil testing should be conducted before using fertilizers to identify which nutrients are deficient in the soil. This enables the correct selection of fertilizers and the determination of their appropriate quantities.
• Timely Application of Fertilizers: It is crucial to apply fertilizers to crops at the right time. As plants grow, their nutrient requirements also change. Fertilizers should be applied in different quantities and types immediately after sowing, during the initial growth stage, during flowering, and during fruit formation.

What fertilizers do you use to achieve better yields of sponge gourd? Share your answers and experiences with us in the comments. For more information on obtaining better crops, make sure to follow the 'Krishi Gyan' channel right away. Also, don’t forget to like this post and share it with other farmers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What fertilizer should be applied to the sponge gourd?

A: A balanced amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be used for sponge gourd. Additionally, using compost, cow dung manure, or vermicompost also ensures proper plant development and improves crop yield and quality.

Q: What is the best fertilizer for vegetables?

A: Fertilizers rich in organic matter are considered the best for vegetable crops. Using compost made from a mixture of green and brown materials, including grass, leaves, fruit and vegetable peels, and crop residues, can lead to better yields.

Q: When should NPK 19:19:19 be used?

A: NPK 19:19:19 can be applied during the plant's growth stage and when the plants are flowering. It is particularly beneficial for crops like fruits, flowers, and vegetables that require higher amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.