Harvesting, Processing, and Storage - SS1 Agriculture Lesson Note

1. Harvesting:

Groundnut: Harvesting typically occurs when the plant reaches maturity, and the leaves start to turn yellow. Pods are dug up, and the plant is left to dry in the field for a few days.

Cowpea: Cowpea pods can be harvested when they are still green for fresh consumption or left to mature and dry on the plant for seed production.

2. Processing:

Groundnut: After drying, groundnut pods are threshed to remove the seeds. The seeds are then cleaned and sorted.

Cowpea: For seed production, cowpea pods are dried, threshed, and the seeds are cleaned. For fresh consumption, pods are simply shelled.

3. Storage:

Both groundnut and cowpea should be stored in cool, dry, and well-ventilated spaces to prevent moisture and pest damage.

Properly dried seeds are less prone to fungal growth during storage.

Use of storage structures like jute bags or plastic containers with tight lids can help protect the pulses from humidity and pests.

In conclusion, successful pulse husbandry involves careful pre-planting and planting operations, consideration of nutrient requirements, and efficient harvesting, processing, and storage techniques. Proper practices at each stage of cultivation are essential for maximizing yields and quality while minimizing post-harvest losses.