As a horticulture and landscape gardening expert , I ’ve had the delight of growing chickpea in my own garden and help others do the same . chickpea are a versatile and alimentary legume that can thrive in cool conditions , making them a great addition to any saltation garden .
The best prison term to plant Egyptian pea is in early springtime , typically about a week or so before the last hoar date in your area . This timing provide the plants to ground themselves before the estrus of summertime Set in . In my own experience , I have found that planting chickpeas in late March or early April yields the best results .
To find the last rime date in your domain , you’re able to confer with local gardening resources or use online tool that leave frost date info based on your placement . Keep in head that these dates can vary calculate on your specific climate and microclimate , so it ’s always a estimable idea to have a backup plan in case of unexpected weather changes .
Before planting chickpeas , it ’s important to prepare the soil the right way . Chickpeas prefer well - draining filth with a slightly acidic to neutral pH point . If your stain is enceinte or clay - like , you may remedy it with constitutive matter such as compost or aged manure to meliorate drain and prolificacy .
Here ’s a step - by - measure guide to planting Cicer arietinum :
1 . take a sunny spot in your garden that receives at least 6 - 8 hours of unmediated sun per day . Chickpeas thrive in full sun .
2 . remove the sphere of any weeds or junk , and relax the soil with a garden fork or tiller . Remove any large John Rock or roots that may hinder root growth .
3 . If needed , amend the soil with compost or senior manure to improve fertility and drainage . Work the amendments into the top 6 - 8 inches of soil .
4 . make furrows or shallow trenches about 1 - 2 inches deep , spaced about 12 - 18 inches apart . Alternatively , you’re able to also plant chickpeas in leaven beds or containers if you have limited space .
5 . Sow the chickpea seeds about 1 - 2 inches aside along the wrinkle or trenches . Gently cover the seeds with soil , ensuring they are not plant too deep .
6 . Water the domain thoroughly after planting to ensure serious seed - to - soil touch and to kickstart germination . Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged throughout the growing time of year .
7 . As the chickpea plants grow , provide support such as treillage or stakes if necessary . This helps keep the plants upright and prevents them from sprawling on the ground .
8 . Monitor the plants for pesterer , such as aphid or caterpillars , and take appropriate measures to control them if necessary . Organic gadfly ascendence method , such as handpicking or using insecticidal soap , are recommended .
9 . reap the chickpeas when the seedpod are ironic and brickle . This usually pass in previous summer or early fall , depending on your planting date and growing condition . mildly commit the pods from the industrial plant and remove the chickpea from the pods .
By come these footfall and furnish proper forethought , you may love a liberal crop of fresh and flavorous chickpea . They can be used in a smorgasbord of dishes , from salad and stews to hummus and roasted snacks . Happy planting !
Caroline Bates
