21 April 2026 Written By-Saikat Mandal
Barley is one of the oldest cultivated grains, widely used for food, fodder, and beverages. It grows well in diverse climates and is ideal for farmers seeking low-input crops.
Barley thrives in cool, dry climates. – Ideal temperature: 12°C to 25°C – Requires moderate rainfall – Sensitive to high humidity during maturity
– Best soil: Well-drained loamy or sandy soil – pH range: 6.0 to 7.5 – Plough the field 2–3 times for fine tilth – Ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging
– Choose high-yield, disease-resistant varieties – Use certified seeds for better germination – Seed rate: 80–100 kg per hectare
– Sowing season: October to November (Rabi crop) – Method: Broadcasting or line sowing – Spacing: 20–25 cm between rows
– Apply FYM (Farmyard Manure) before sowing – Recommended dose: Nitrogen: 40–60 kg/ha Phosphorus: 20–30 kg/ha – Split nitrogen application for better growth
– Requires 2–3 irrigations – Critical stages: Tillering Flowering – Avoid excess water as it harms the crop
– Remove weeds early (20–30 days after sowing) – Common pests: Aphids, armyworms – Use appropriate pesticides or organic method
– Crop matures in 90–120 days – Harvest when grains are hard and golden – Use sickle or harvester for cutting