Top Mustard Varieties for 2025: A Guide for Indian Farmers

 

Top Mustard Varieties for 2025: A Guide for Indian Farmers

Mustard is one of the most important oilseed crops in India, providing high-quality oil and valuable income for farmers. To ensure a successful mustard harvest, choosing the right variety and following proper cultivation techniques is essential. This guide highlights the top mustard varieties for 2025 and explains how to cultivate mustard for maximum yield.

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Top Mustard Varieties for Indian Farmers (2025)

Choosing the right mustard variety is crucial for achieving high yields and resisting pests and diseases. Here are some of the best options:

1. Pusa Jaikisan (BIO-902)

• A popular variety is known for its high oil content and early maturity.

• Matures in 130–135 days.

2. Varuna

• A versatile, high-yielding variety.

• Performs well in diverse soil types and climatic conditions.

3. Rohini

• Resistant to white rust and other diseases.

• Ideal for semi-arid regions.

4. Kranti

• Known for its excellent adaptability and high yield.

• Best for regions with low rainfall.

5. Ashirwad

• Suitable for irrigated and rainfed conditions.

• Matures in 140–145 days.

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How to Cultivate Mustard: Step-by-Step

1. Climate and Soil Requirements

• Climate: Mustard thrives in cool and dry weather with temperatures between 10°C to 25°C.

• Soil: Grow mustard in well-drained loamy or sandy soils with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Discover mustard varieties that are not only climate-resilient but also naturally resistant to common pests. Climate-Resilient Mustard Varieties for Changing Weather Patterns

2. Land Preparation

• Prepare the soil by plowing 2–3 times to achieve a fine tilth.

• Add organic manure (10–12 tons per hectare) or compost to improve soil fertility. Find out how organic farming techniques can help you manage pests without relying on harmful chemicals. Organic Mustard Farming: A Sustainable Approach

3. Sowing Mustard Seeds

• Time: October to mid-November is the best sowing period.

• Seed Rate: 4–6 kg per hectare.

• Use certified seeds of high-yielding varieties for better results.

4. Irrigation and Water Management

• Mustard requires 2–3 irrigations during its lifecycle:

• First irrigation: 30–35 days after sowing.

• Second irrigation: pod formation stage.

• Avoid over-irrigation to prevent fungal diseases. Proper irrigation techniques help maintain healthy mustard plants, making them less susceptible to pest infestations. Ideal Irrigation Practices for Mustard Crops

5. Fertilizer Application

• Apply fertilizers based on soil testing results. General recommendations:

• Nitrogen (N): 80–100 kg per hectare.

• Phosphorus (P): 40–60 kg per hectare.

• Potassium (K): 30–40 kg per hectare. Learn how healthy soil and balanced nutrients can strengthen mustard plants and reduce pest attacks. Soil Preparation and Fertilizer Management in Mustard Cultivation

6. Weed and Pest Management

• Weeds: Use pre-emergence herbicides like Pendimethalin or manually remove weeds during the first 30–40 days.

• Pests: Control aphids using neem oil or insecticides like Imidacloprid.

• Diseases: Use fungicides like Mancozeb to combat Alternaria blight and white rust. A comprehensive guide to tackling mustard pests and ensuring a healthy, pest-free crop. Pest Control Tips for Mustard Farmers. Learn more about Common Pests in Mustard Farming and How to Control Them.

7. Harvesting Mustard

• Harvest when 75% of the pods turn yellow but before they shatter.

• Dry the harvested crop and thresh it for high-quality seeds. 

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FAQs About Mustard Farming

Q1: Which is the best time to sow mustard in India?

The best sowing time is from October to mid-November, depending on the region’s climate.

Q2: How can I increase mustard yield?

Use certified seeds of high-yielding varieties, apply balanced fertilizers, and manage weeds and pests effectively.

Q3: How much fertilizer is needed for mustard?

Apply 80–100 kg of nitrogen, 40–60 kg of phosphorus, and 30–40 kg of potassium per hectare.

Q4: How many irrigations are required for mustard?

Mustard requires 2–3 irrigations, particularly during the pre-flowering and pod formation stages.

Q5: How can I control aphids in mustard?

Aphids can be controlled by spraying neem oil or using insecticides like Imidacloprid.

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Related Internal Links

• Water Management for Mustard Crops: Learn how proper irrigation practices can complement soil preparation and fertilizer management for mustard.

  Best Practices for Sustainable Mustard Farming: Explore sustainable farming techniques that combine soil health, fertilizer management, and crop rotation for better yield and environmental benefits

  Understanding Organic Fertilizers for Mustard Cultivation: Check out how organic fertilizers can be used to supplement conventional fertilizers and improve soil health for mustard crops.

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Conclusion

Cultivating mustard successfully requires selecting the right variety and following the best farming practices. High-yielding varieties like Pusa Jaikisan and Varuna can ensure a profitable harvest. By managing irrigation, fertilizers, and pests effectively, Indian farmers can maximize their mustard production in 2025.