2026 Planting Guide
Fall cropWhen to Plant Lentils in India
Complete guide to growing lentils in India 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 lentils growing season in India.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
8°C (46°F) minimum
Growing Period
120-150 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
N/A
Tropical climate
First Fall Frost
N/A
No frost risk
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing lentils in India.
January
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
February - April
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
May - 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 Lentils Varieties for India
These varieties have proven performance in India's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pusa Vaibhav | India climate |
| 2 | IPL 316 | India climate |
| 3 | Moitree | India climate |
| 4 | HUL 57 | India climate |
| 5 | KLS 218 | India climate |
Growing Tips for India
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced India farmers.
Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar are top producers
Rabi crop: sow at receding monsoon moisture
Wilt complex (Fusarium + Rhizoctonia) — resistant varieties essential
Aphid management at flowering stage critical
India is world's #1 lentil consumer and major producer
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Aphids
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Pod borer
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Fusarium wilt
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Rust
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Ascochyta blight
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside lentils, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
No Frost Risk
India has a tropical or subtropical climate. Frost is generally not a concern, but altitude-dependent cold spells can occur in some areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant lentils in India?
The optimal planting window for lentils in India is October 15 to November 30. Soil temperature should reach at least 8°C (46°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 120-150 days.
What varieties of lentils grow best in India?
The best varieties for India include Pusa Vaibhav, IPL 316, Moitree, HUL 57, KLS 218. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest lentils in India?
The harvest window for lentils in India is typically February 15 to April 15. The crop takes 120-150 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research), state agricultural universities, and FAO India. 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.