Rajma, or kidney beans, are a staple in Indian kitchens, particularly in North India, where they are popularly used in the iconic dish "Rajma Chawal," a comforting combination of kidney beans cooked in a spiced gravy served with rice. Rajma is rich in protein, fibre, and essential minerals, making it a nutritious choice for vegetarian meals. It can also be used in salads, curries, and snacks.
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Growing rajma in India is relatively easy, as they thrive in warm weather. The ideal planting season is from March to June, when the soil temperature is between 15-20°C. Regular watering is essential, especially during flowering and pod formation, but care must be taken to avoid overwatering. Rajma plants require minimal maintenance and whether grown in gardens or pots, growing them at home is a great enjoy fresh legumes in home-cooked meals.
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Before you begin, it’s important to choose the right variety of rajma beans that suits your climate and growing conditions. There are mainly two types of kidney beans: the bush variety and the pole variety. Bush beans grow low to the ground and don’t require much support, while pole beans are climbers and need a trellis or support to grow vertically. In Indian home gardens, both varieties can thrive, but the bush variety is often easier to manage in small spaces. Make sure you choose seeds from a reliable source or use organic rajma beans that have not been treated with chemicals.
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Prepping To Plant The Rajma
Rajma beans need warm weather, so it’s crucial to plant them in the right season. The ideal time to plant rajma beans is early summer, when the soil temperature has warmed up. In most parts of India, March to June is the best time for planting. In cooler regions, you can start the seeds indoors and transplant them once the temperature rises.
Rajma beans thrive in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Loamy or sandy loam soil is ideal for growing beans. They do not do well in waterlogged conditions, so ensure proper drainage in your garden or pots.
To prepare the soil, loosen it to a depth of about 6-8 inches, and mix in compost or well-rotted manure. Beans are nitrogen-fixing plants, meaning they can improve soil fertility by fixing atmospheric nitrogen through a symbiotic relationship with bacteria. However, they still benefit from some compost or organic fertiliser to start.
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Planting The Rajma Beans
Once the soil is ready, it’s time to plant the seeds. Direct sowing is the preferred method for growing rajma beans, as they don’t transplant well due to their delicate root system.
Sow the seeds about 1-2 inches deep, and leave 6-8 inches between each seed if planting in rows. For bush beans, leave about 18 inches between rows, and for pole beans, provide vertical support and space rows at least 12 inches apart.
Water the soil lightly after planting and keep it moist, but not waterlogged. The seeds will germinate within 7-10 days.
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Caring For Rajma Beans
After germination, the real work begins. Rajma beans are relatively low-maintenance, but they do require proper care to ensure a healthy crop. Rajma beans need consistent moisture, especially during flowering and pod formation. Water the plants regularly, ensuring the soil is evenly moist but not soggy.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to let the soil dry slightly between waterings. In hot climates, mulching around the base of the plants helps retain moisture and keeps the soil temperature regulated.
If you're growing the pole variety, make sure to install a trellis, stakes, or any vertical support system as the plants start to grow. This will help the vines climb and keep the beans off the ground, reducing the risk of pests and disease.
While rajma beans don’t need heavy fertilisation, you can apply a balanced organic fertiliser during the early growth phase. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilisers, as they may promote leafy growth at the expense of bean production.
Pests and Diseases
While rajma beans are generally resilient, they are not immune to pests and diseases. Common pests include aphids, bean beetles, and spider mites. To manage these pests, you can use organic insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests and treat them early to avoid infestations.
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Harvesting Rajma Beans
Rajma beans can be harvested in two stages. If you prefer fresh green beans, you can harvest the young pods when they are tender, usually about 60-70 days after planting. For dried rajma beans, which are used in most Indian dishes, allow the pods to mature fully on the plant. The pods will turn yellow and dry out. Once they are fully dried, pick the pods and shell the beans. Let the beans air dry for a few days before storing them in an airtight container.
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Once harvested and dried, rajma beans can be stored for several months in a cool, dry place. Make sure the beans are completely dry before storing to avoid mould growth. You can store them in glass jars or sealed containers for use throughout the year.