The monsoon is a good time for growing leafy vegetables, and farmers are busy cultivating many kinds of greens in this season. Success at this time of year, however, depends on a few special techniques. Here is how to grow leafy vegetables during the rains.

Choose high land with fast drainage. Make drains or channels so that excess rainwater does not collect around the plants. Disease attacks are more common in the humid monsoon weather, so ensure proper care with a moderate amount of organic fertiliser.

• Plough and harrow the land well to make the soil loose and crumbly. To drain rainwater, keep the land slightly sloping and make raised beds.
• It is best to sow good-quality and hybrid seed before or at the start of the monsoon.

• Weed regularly for quick growth. If needed, apply a balanced dose of fertiliser or plenty of organic fertiliser.
• Excess humidity can bring fungal attack. If disease appears, control it with pesticide or natural methods on the advice of your local agriculture officer.
• When growing greens on the roof or in pots, do not use containers in which water can collect. Prepare the soil by mixing in the necessary organic fertiliser or compost.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.