PIGEON PEA FARMING

 Pigeon peas are an ancient crop that has been cultivated for thousands of years. They are thought to have originated in Africa, and they were first domesticated in India around 2000 years ago. They were introduced to the Americas by African slaves in the 16th century and later introduced to Australia and New Zealand in 19th century. In 20th century, it become a major crop in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Pigeon peas are a legume, and they are a good source of protein and fiber. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and phosphorus. They are a drought-tolerant crop, and they can be grown in a variety of climates. They are also a relatively pest- and disease-resistant crop. Pigeon peas are a valuable crop for farmers in developing countries, and they are an important part of the food security of millions of people.

Pigeon peas also referred in Swahili as mbaazi is produced as a vegetable or export grain crop in southern and eastern Africa. Pigeon pea is a perennial shrub that is commonly grown as an annual crop. It has very slow initial development (up to 2 months after planting). With a deep taproot, pigeon peas are able to take up nutrients and water from lower subsoil layers. Pigeon pea is well balanced nutritionally and an excellent source of protein. Pigeon pea is useful as tall hedges on dry soil and on the bunds of paddy fields. The branches and stems can be used for baskets and firewood. It is often grown as a shade crop, cover crop or windbreak. After establishment, pigeon pea improves the soil by its extensive root system. The bacterium Rhizobium that lives on the roots of the pigeon pea is able to fix nitrogen and thus to improve soil fertility. Fallen leaves are used as mulch. Traditional uses as medicine are many, e.g. young leaves are applied to sores, herpes and itches.

Maturity Duration: Pigeon peas take anywhere from 90 to 120 days to mature from planting to harvest.

Expected Yield: Pigeon peas can yield anywhere from 40 to 100 bushels per acre.

Growing Season: Pigeon peas can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 5-10. It prefers a warm, humid climate with plenty of rainfall.

Nutritional Value: Pigeon peas are a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and protein. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and iron.

Growing Altitude: Pigeon peas can be grown at a variety of altitudes, but it does best at low to mid altitudes.

Growing Rainfall: Pigeon peas require a moderate amount of rainfall, but it can tolerate drought conditions.

Growing Temperature: Pigeon peas prefer warm temperatures and does not do well in cold weather.

Growing Soils and PH: Pigeon peas prefer well-drained, loamy soils with a pH of 6-7.