2026 Planting Guide
Fall cropWhen to Plant Chickpeas in Pakistan
Complete guide to growing chickpeas in Pakistan with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from national agricultural research organizations and FAO.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the chickpeas growing season in Pakistan. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
10°C (50°F) minimum
Growing Period
140-170 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
February 15 (Punjab plains)
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
December 15 (Punjab plains)
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing chickpeas in Pakistan.
January - February
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
March - May
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
June - September
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
October - November
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
December
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
Best Chickpeas Varieties for Pakistan
These varieties have proven performance in Pakistan's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thal-2006 | Pakistan climate |
| 2 | Punjab-2008 | Pakistan climate |
| 3 | Bittle-98 | Pakistan climate |
| 4 | Noor-2009 | Pakistan climate |
| 5 | CM-2008 | Pakistan climate |
Growing Tips for Pakistan
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Pakistan farmers.
Pakistan is a top-10 chickpea producer — Thal desert region of Punjab and Balochistan are primary zones
Rabi season crop: sow October-November
Desi type dominates (95%) — smaller, darker seeds with rough coat
Ascochyta blight is #1 disease — use resistant varieties + fungicide at flowering
Rainfed crop mostly — supplemental irrigation at pod filling improves yield
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Pod borer (Helicoverpa)
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Fusarium wilt
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Ascochyta blight
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Aphids
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Cut worm
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside chickpeas, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
Last Spring Frost
February 15 (Punjab plains)
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
December 15 (Punjab plains)
Plan to complete harvest of warm-season crops before this date arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant chickpeas in Pakistan?
The optimal planting window for chickpeas in Pakistan is October 1 to November 30. Soil temperature should reach at least 10°C (50°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 140-170 days.
What varieties of chickpeas grow best in Pakistan?
The best varieties for Pakistan include Thal-2006, Punjab-2008, Bittle-98, Noor-2009, CM-2008. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest chickpeas in Pakistan?
The harvest window for chickpeas in Pakistan is typically March 15 to May 15. The crop takes 140-170 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), Punjab Agriculture Department, and FAO Pakistan. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.