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Comprehensive Guide to Turmeric Cultivation: Varieties, Planting and Harvesting

Agronomic practices, such as variety selection, planting materials, seed rates, land preparation, and harvesting techniques, highly influence the cultivation of turmeric (Curcuma longa).Variety selection is important as it depends on the local climatic and soil conditions. In the higher altitudes of Andhra Pradesh, varieties like PTS-55, BSR-1, and PTS-11are performing well. Alleppey finger, Sangali, Rajapore, Nizamabad Bulb, Duggirala, Kasturi, Armoor, Chaya are grown in Andhra Pradesh. Mother rhizomes are recommended over finger rhizomes due to their higher reserves, yielding better crop growth and development. The ideal sowing rate is between 1000 and 1500 kg/ha depending on region and plant conditions. Some rhizome treatments with fungicides and growth promoters like mancozeb, KH2PO4, and GA3 have been found to yield better results. Land preparation is generally done with several ploughings, though ridge and furrow planting are mostly ideal for cultural practices. The planting time coincides with the starting of southwest monsoon, usually between the months of April and August. Late sowing reduces the risk of leaf blotch and ensures better yield. Spacing is also a factor: it varies depending on soil and cultivar and closer spacing gives better results without a compromise in quality. Harvesting is normally performed 7-9 months from planting, depending on the cultivar, and can be done manually or mechanically where mechanical harvesting offers efficiency and minimizing damage. In general, these Agronomic Practice ensure there is improved yield and quality of turmeric crops in most regions.