Cajanus cajan
TAXONOMY
FamilyFabaceae
GenusCajanus
Zone10
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Cajanus cajan, commonly known as pigeon pea, is a perennial legume from the family Fabaceae. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and is widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant can grow as a shrub or small tree and is known for its drought tolerance. Pigeon pea is an important food crop and is used in various culinary dishes. It also plays a role in soil improvement due to its nitrogen-fixing ability.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Pigeon Pea
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD2,250
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Pigeon pea requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in warm temperatures and moderate humidity. Water the plant when the soil is almost completely dry, but avoid waterlogging. It is well-suited for outdoor cultivation in seasonally dry tropical climates.Harvest
Cajanus cajan, commonly known as pigeon pea, is typically ready for harvest about 150 days after planting. Harvesting should be done when the pods are fully mature and have turned brown. The pods can be handpicked or cut from the plant. It is important to harvest before the pods start to shatter to avoid seed loss. After harvesting, the pods should be dried in the sun for a few days before threshing to separate the seeds. Proper drying and storage are essential to prevent mold and insect damage.Soil
Pigeon pea prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the plant. A mix of sand and organic matter can improve soil structure and drainage.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season to support its development. Avoid over-fertilizing, as pigeon pea can fix its own nitrogen.Repotting
Repot pigeon pea when it outgrows its current container or if the soil becomes compacted. Choose a larger pot with good drainage and fresh soil mix. Repotting is best done during the growing season.Propagation
Pigeon pea can be propagated from seeds. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and keep them in a warm, sunny location. Germination typically occurs within a couple of weeks. Transplant the seedlings when they are strong enough to handle.Pruning
Prune pigeon pea to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove dead or damaged branches and trim back excessive growth. Pruning is best done during the growing season.Toxicity
Pigeon pea is not toxic to pets or humans. It is a safe plant to grow in gardens and around homes.Additional
Pigeon pea is not only a valuable food crop but also beneficial for soil health due to its nitrogen-fixing properties. It can be intercropped with other plants to improve soil fertility and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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