🌱 Soil Preparation

Soil Type: Opt for well-drained, fertile soils—preferably sandy loam or loamy soils. Avoid heavy clay soils, as they can retain excess moisture, leading to bulb rot.

Soil pH: Maintain a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If the soil is too acidic, consider liming to adjust the pH.

Organic Matter: Incorporate well-rotted farmyard manure or compost during land preparation to enhance soil fertility.

🌿 Planting Techniques

Propagation: Use healthy, disease-free bulbs or cloves for planting. Alternatively, seeds can be sown in nurseries and transplanted later.

Spacing: Plant bulbs 10–15 cm apart in rows spaced 20–30 cm apart to ensure adequate airflow and reduce disease risk.

Depth: Place bulbs just below the soil surface, ensuring the tip is slightly exposed.

💧 Water Management

Irrigation: Provide consistent moisture, especially during bulb formation. However, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Frequency: Irrigate every 7–10 days, adjusting based on rainfall and soil moisture levels.

🌾 Nutrient Management

Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer rich in phosphorus and potassium before planting. Supplement with nitrogen during the early growth stages.

Organic Inputs: Incorporate compost or vermicompost to improve soil structure and nutrient availability.

🐛 Pest and Disease Control

Common Pests: Watch out for thrips and onion maggots. Implement crop rotation and use organic insecticides if necessary.

Diseases: Prevent fungal infections like white rot by ensuring proper spacing and avoiding waterlogged conditions.

🌞 Sunlight and Climate

Light: Ensure the crop receives full sunlight for optimal growth.

Temperature: Cheriya ulli thrives in temperatures between 20°C and 30°C.

🧺 Harvesting and Storage

Harvest Time: Typically, cheriya ulli is ready for harvest 90–100 days after planting when the tops begin to yellow and fall over.

Curing: After harvesting, cure the bulbs by drying them in a well-ventilated area for 7–10 days to enhance shelf life.

Storage: Store cured bulbs in a cool, dry place with good air circulation to prevent sprouting and decay.