India is one of the world’s largest onion producers, and the rabi crop makes up the biggest share of output. Rabi onion also stores better than kharif onion, which lets farmers sell when prices improve. Here is a guide based on advice from the ICAR Directorate of Onion and Garlic Research (DOGR), Rajgurunagar, Pune.
Climate and soil
- Onion grows well in mild weather without extreme heat or cold during bulb formation.
- Well drained, fertile loam soil is ideal.
- Avoid heavy soils that hold water.
Nursery raising
- Raise seedlings on raised beds to avoid waterlogging.
- For the rabi crop, nursery is usually sown in October and November.
- Treat seed with a recommended fungicide to prevent damping off.
- Seedlings are ready for transplanting in about six to eight weeks.
Transplanting
Seedlings are generally transplanted in December and January. Plant them at close spacing on flat beds or broad beds as advised. Water the field lightly right after transplanting.
Also Read: Wheat Sowing Guide for Rabi Season: Best Time, Seed Rate, Varieties and Tips From ICAR | Mustard Farming Guide for Rabi: Sowing Time, Seed Rate, Irrigation and Pest Control Tips
Varieties
ICAR-DOGR has released improved varieties under the Bhima series, including some meant for the rabi season with good storage life. The National Horticultural Research and Development Foundation (NHRDF) has also released varieties under the Agrifound name. Pick a variety recommended for your area and season.
Fertiliser and irrigation
- Apply manure and fertiliser as per a soil test.
- Onion has shallow roots, so it needs frequent light irrigation.
- Drip irrigation saves water and improves bulb size.
- Stop irrigation about two to three weeks before harvest. This helps bulbs mature and store well.
Pests and diseases
- Thrips are a major pest. They cause silvery streaks on leaves.
- Purple blotch and Stemphylium blight are common diseases in humid weather.
- Follow integrated pest management and use only recommended sprays.
Harvesting
Rabi onion is usually harvested in April and May. The crop is ready when the tops fall over naturally. Pull the bulbs and leave them in the field for a few days to dry.
Curing and storage
- Cure bulbs in shade to dry the neck and outer skin.
- Store in well ventilated structures with bottom and side airflow.
- Sort out damaged and sprouted bulbs before storage.
Good storage reduces losses and lets you wait for better prices.
Selling the crop
Track daily arrivals and prices on Agmarknet and e-NAM. Major onion mandis like Lasalgaon in Maharashtra often set the trend for prices across the country.
Bottom line
A healthy nursery, timely transplanting, careful irrigation and proper curing are the keys to profitable rabi onion farming.
Source / स्रोत: ICAR Directorate of Onion and Garlic Research, National Horticultural Research and Development Foundation, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
