As modern farming evolves, sustainability has become more than just a buzzword — it’s a necessity. Rising fertilizer costs, soil degradation, and declining yields have pushed farmers to look for natural ways to improve soil fertility. Among the most effective and affordable methods is the use of green manure crops, and two of the best options for Indian farmers are Dhaincha and Sunhemp. These nitrogen-fixing legumes are often referred to as “green gold” for the long-term benefits they bring to soil health and productivity.
Dhaincha: A Soil Reviver for Saline and Sandy Lands
Dhaincha (Sesbania bispinosa) is a hardy leguminous plant that grows quickly and thrives in poor, saline, or sandy soils. It is most commonly grown during the summer months and is ploughed into the soil before flowering to maximize its green manure benefits.
Key benefits of Dhaincha include:
Fixes 60–100 kg/ha of atmospheric nitrogen.
Improves soil structure and organic matter.
Effective for reclaiming saline soils.
Suppresses weed growth and certain pests.
Once incorporated into the soil, Dhaincha decomposes rapidly, releasing nutrients that are easily absorbed by the next crop. This makes it particularly useful before planting paddy, sugarcane, or cotton.
Sunhemp: The Fast-Growing Multipurpose Green Manure
Sunhemp (Crotalaria juncea) is another fast-growing green manure crop, known for its versatility. Apart from enriching the soil, it can be used for fiber, fodder, and even as a cover crop to prevent erosion.
Farmers prefer Sunhemp because:
It grows rapidly and is ready for incorporation in 45–60 days.
Adds significant organic biomass to the soil.
Controls nematodes and suppresses soil-borne diseases.
Can be used in both kharif and summer seasons.
Sunhemp is ideal for loamy soils and regions with moderate rainfall. Its quick growth and nitrogen-fixing ability make it a favorite in crop rotation systems, especially before pulses, cereals, or vegetables.
Dhaincha vs Sunhemp: Which Should You Choose?
While both crops offer excellent benefits, your choice depends on soil type, crop cycle, and intended use. Here's a quick comparison:
Feature
Dhaincha
Sunhemp
Soil Type
Sandy, saline
Well-drained loamy
Growth Time
45–60 days
45–60 days
Biomass
Moderate
High
Additional Use
Salinity management
Fiber & fodder
Nematode Control
Moderate
Strong
How and When to Use Green Manure
Both Dhaincha and Sunhemp should be sown after harvesting a rabi crop or before a main kharif crop. The best results are seen when the plants are incorporated into the soil just before flowering — around 45 to 60 days after sowing.
Sowing tips:
Dhaincha seed rate: 20–25 kg/ha
Sunhemp seed rate: 25–30 kg/ha
Irrigate once if soil is too dry for germination.
Plough under the crop while it's still green for quicker decomposition.
Economic and Long-Term Soil Benefits
Using green manure is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce chemical fertilizer dependency. Farmers who consistently use Dhaincha or Sunhemp report:
Reduced urea and DAP application.
Improved soil texture and moisture retention.
Higher yields over time due to better root health and nutrient availability.
For example, farmers in Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra have shared success stories of yield increases in paddy and cotton after using green manure for just two seasons.
Conclusion: Invest in Your Soil, Naturally
Whether you choose Dhaincha or Sunhemp, adding green manure to your farming routine is a wise decision. These seeds are affordable, easy to grow, and highly effective at rejuvenating soil health. As agriculture shifts towards more sustainable practices, green manure crops offer a simple but powerful way to grow better — naturally.
Looking for high-quality Dhaincha and Sunhemp seeds? Agriplex offers certified, tested seeds delivered right to your doorstep. Give your soil the care it deserves!
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