Legumes & Pulses· Lens culinaris

Lentil Growing Guide

Nutritious pulse crop high in protein and fiber. Excellent for dryland farming.

How Long Does Lentil Take to Grow?

Lentil is typically ready to harvest about 100 days after planting.

100
Days to Harvest
1,120
kg/hectare
low
Water Needs
full sun
Sun Needs

Growing Conditions

Temperature
15-25°C optimal
Frost Tolerance
light
Drought Tolerance
high

Soil Requirements

Soil Type & pH

Best soil types: loam, sandy loam

pH range: 5.5 - 7.5 (optimal: 6.5)

Drainage: good

Planting Guide

Planting Methods
direct seeding
Planting Depth
4 cm
Planting Season
spring

Yield & Economics

Yield Range
340 - 2,540 kg/ha
Market Demand
growing
Profitability
medium

Growing Tips

Excellent rotation crop after cereals

Inoculate with rhizobium for N-fixation

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Lentil take to grow?

Lentil typically takes 100 days from planting to harvest. Seeds germinate in about 10 days. The best planting season is spring.

What soil does Lentil need?

Lentil grows best in loam, sandy loam soil with a pH of 5.5-7.5. Good drainage is required.

What temperature does Lentil need?

Lentil grows best at 15-25°C. Frost tolerance: light.

What is the expected yield for Lentil?

Across 16 countries with grounded data, reported national yields for Lentil range from 340 to 2,540 kg/hectare, with a median of 1,120. These are national statistics, not a best-case figure — an individual farm's yield depends on variety, climate, soil and management.

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