Barley Production Technology
Barley Production Technology
Barley is a versatile cereal crop used for food, feed, and brewing industries. With advanced production technology, farmers can achieve higher yields, better grain quality, and sustainable farming practices.
Key Steps in Barley Production Technology
Climate & Soil Requirements
➡ Ideal temperature: 12-22°C with moderate rainfall (300-500 mm).
➡ Grows well in well-drained loamy or sandy soils with good fertility.
➡ Optimal pH: 6.0 – 7.5 for nutrient uptake.
High-Yielding & Disease-Resistant Varieties
➡ Popular high-yielding varieties: RD 2552, BH 946, K 508, DWRB 92.
➡ Choose varieties based on intended use (food, feed, malt, brewing).
Sowing & Seed Rate
Best sowing time: October-November (Rabi season).
Seed rate: 80-100 kg per hectare for irrigated land, 100-120 kg per hectare for rainfed areas.
Sowing methods:
- Broadcasting (Traditional)
- Drilling Method (Uniform spacing & better yield)
- Zero Tillage (Conserves moisture & reduces cost)
Nutrient & Fertilizer Management
➡ NPK Recommendation (per hectare):
- Nitrogen (N): 60-90 kg
- Phosphorus (P₂O₅): 30-40 kg
- Potassium (K₂O): 20-30 kg
➡ Apply organic manure & biofertilizers for improved soil health.
Irrigation & Water Management
➡ Barley requires 2-3 critical irrigations at key stages:
- Crown Root Initiation (CRI) Stage
- Flowering Stage
- Grain Filling Stage (if necessary)
➡ Drip & sprinkler irrigation improve water efficiency.
Weed, Pest & Disease Control
➡ Common weeds: Wild oat, Phalaris minor – controlled using pre-emergence herbicides (Pendimethalin, Isoproturon).
➡ Major pests: Aphids, Armyworms – managed with IPM (Integrated Pest Management).
➡ Diseases: Leaf Rust, Stripe Rust, Powdery Mildew – controlled with resistant varieties & fungicides.
Harvesting & Post-Harvest Management
➡ Harvest when grains are hard, golden brown, and moisture is below 12%.
➡ Use combine harvesters for efficient harvesting.
➡ Proper drying & storage ensure high grain quality for food & malt processing.