How to Grow Chickpea 'Pusa 1048'
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Chickpea 'Pusa 1048'
Cicer arietinum
vegetablePusa 1048 is a high-yielding chickpea cultivar developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, known for its disease resistance and reliable pod production. This is a kabuli-type chickpea with larger, lighter-colored seeds and a compact growth habit. It is widely grown in India and other South Asian regions for both fresh consumption and dried grain.
When should you plant Chickpea 'Pusa 1048' in your zone?
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Example Chickpea 'Pusa 1048' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Chickpea 'Pusa 1048'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Chickpea 'Pusa 1048'
Around Jul 26≈ 100 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Chickpea 'Pusa 1048' dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 7-10; prefers cool-season growing in subtropical and warm temperate climates
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Get my Chickpea 'Pusa 1048' timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksEmergence with cotyledons and first true leaves; plant stands 2-3 inches tall
Ensure consistent soil moisture for germination; thin seedlings if direct-seeded; protect from strong wind and heavy rain
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksBushy plant with 20-40 cm height; compound leaves develop; plant establishes root system and node structure
Maintain moderate moisture; apply light nitrogen if needed; mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature; monitor for early pests
Flowering
3-4 weeksSmall white, pink, or purple flowers appear in leaf axils; flower buds at multiple nodes; plant reaches maximum height
Ensure consistent water supply during flowering to support pod set; avoid excess nitrogen which delays flowering; monitor for spider mites and flower-feeding insects
Pod Development & Pod Fill
4-5 weeksPods swell with developing seeds; pods reach full size (about 1.5 inches); seeds inside enlarge and harden
Reduce watering gradually to concentrate sugars and nutrients into seeds; cease irrigation 2-3 weeks before maturity; support plants if lodging occurs
Maturity & Harvest
2-3 weeksPods turn brown and papery; seeds fully hardened; plant begins to dry and senesce; ready for mechanical or manual harvest
Allow plants to fully mature before harvest; monitor for pod shattering in dry conditions; harvest when 80-90% of pods are brown
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Deploy pheromone traps; hand-pick affected pods; spray neem oil or spinosad if infestation is heavy; cultural practices like early sowing reduce pest pressure
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Maintain plant vigor with consistent watering; spray with water to dislodge mites; use sulfur dust or neem oil if populations spike
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Encourage natural predators (ladybugs, lacewings); spray insecticidal soap or neem oil; avoid excess nitrogen fertilizer
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Remove and destroy affected leaves; use reflective mulches to deter; spray spinosad if necessary
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray insecticidal soap; promote air circulation; avoid excessive shade
Uses
Dried and cooked grains
CulinaryChickpea seeds are soaked and boiled to create a staple protein-rich ingredient in curries, hummus, chana masala, and other South Asian and Middle Eastern dishes. High in fiber, plant-based protein, and minerals, they are a cornerstone of vegetarian and vegan cuisine. [source]
Chickpea flour and batter
CulinaryDried seeds are ground into besan (chickpea flour), which is used to make pakora, tempura, and various baked goods. The flour provides structure and nutrition to both savory and sweet preparations. [source]
Nutritional and metabolic support
MedicinalChickpeas are rich in polyphenols, isoflavones, and saponins with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditional medicine uses chickpea preparations to support digestion, blood sugar regulation, and cholesterol management. [source]
Livestock feed and crop rotation
HouseholdDried chickpea plants (straw) serve as nutritious fodder for cattle and goats. As a legume, Pusa 1048 fixes atmospheric nitrogen, improving soil fertility for subsequent crops and reducing fertilizer dependency. [source]
Pollinator and beneficial insect support
WildlifeChickpea flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems. The plant also serves as a habitat for beneficial insects that prey on crop pests. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest when 80-90% of pods turn brown and papery, typically 100-120 days after sowing. Cut plants at ground level or pull entire plant by hand. Lay harvested plants in the sun to dry for 3-5 days, then thresh by hand or with mechanical thresher to extract seeds. Store dried seeds in a cool, dry place in airtight containers to preserve germination and prevent pest infestation.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Pusa 1048 was specifically bred by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute to combine high yield, disease resistance, and kabuli seed type, making it one of the most popular cultivars in South Asia.
- 🌱 Chickpeas have been cultivated for over 10,000 years, originating in the Fertile Crescent, and are now the world's third most important legume crop after soybeans and beans.
- 🌱 A single mature chickpea plant can produce 50–200 pods depending on variety, growing conditions, and management; Pusa 1048 is known for its reliable and consistent yields.
Gardening Terms
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