Cultural practices

Normally, the crop is kept free of weeds by 2-3 hand weedings and 1-2 hoeings. Pre-emergence application of Fluchloralin (1-2 litres a.i. in 600-700 litres of water) or Nitrofen (2kg a.i./ha) followed by a hand weeding 60 days after transplanting effectively checks the weed population. If necessary, earthing up is done 30 days after transplanting. At the time of earthing up the plants are supported with soil to avoid toppling of the plant during head formation.