Chickpea Growing Guide

All you need to know to grow successfully!

Plant Family:
Fabaceae
Plant Type:
Annual

Square Foot Spacing:

1
Typical Season:
Warm season
Typical Zones Grown In:
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Growing Difficulty:
Medium

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a legume that are widely used in cooking around the world. They have a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and a firm texture that holds up well in soups, stews, and salads. Chickpeas are a good source of protein, fiber, and other beneficial nutrients, such as iron, folate, and phosphorus. They can be cooked and eaten on their own or used to make a variety of dishes, including hummus, falafel, and curries. Chickpeas are a warm-season crop that prefer well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight.

Brief Growing Guide

Here’s a brief guide on how to grow chickpeas organically:

  1. Soil Preparation: Chickpeas prefer well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 to 7.5. Prepare the soil by removing rocks and debris, and adding organic matter such as compost, aged manure, or leaf litter.
  2. Planting: Plant chickpea seeds after the last frost, when the soil has warmed up to at least 60°F. Sow the seeds about 1-2 inches deep and 3-6 inches apart, with rows spaced 18-24 inches apart.
  3. Watering: Water the seeds immediately after planting, and then every 2-3 days until they germinate. Once the plants are established, water deeply and infrequently, about once a week.
  4. Fertilization: Chickpeas are nitrogen-fixing plants, which means they can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be used by plants. However, they still need phosphorus and potassium. Add a balanced organic fertilizer or compost tea every 2-3 weeks to ensure healthy growth.
  5. Pest and Disease Control: Chickpeas are susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and ascochyta blight. Practice crop rotation, avoid overhead watering, and use organic fungicides if necessary. Chickpeas are also attractive to aphids and other sucking insects. Use organic insecticides or companion planting with beneficial insects such as ladybugs to control pests.
  6. Harvesting: Chickpeas are ready for harvest when the pods have turned yellow and are completely dry. Remove the pods from the plant and remove the seeds from the pods. Dry the seeds completely before storing in a cool, dry place.

By following these steps, you can successfully grow healthy and tasty chickpeas organically.

Planting Guidelines

The following are general guides to follow. However, nothing is set in stone. Feel free to experiment!

How to Start:
Start Indoor
When to Direct Sow:
When to Start Indoors:
March
Sprouting Time:
14-21 days

Ideal Temperature (C):

10-30
Depth:
1cm deep
Spacing (cm):
15cm
Row Spacing (cm):
15cm
Sun Exposure:
Full Sun
Maturity Time:
90-100
When To Harvest:
June, July
How to Harvest:
Use fresh pods when they are still green. For dry seeds, wait until the plants turn brown and then allow them to dry completely on a flat surface. Harvest the seeds as the pods split when completely dry.

Health Benefits

Growing your own food is one of the best things you can do for your health. Let’s check out some of the health benefits!

Is It Edible?
Yes
Edible Parts:
Pods
Potential Health Benefits:
Nutrient-Dense, Weight Loss, Protein, Digestive System, Disease Fighter

Tips to Growing Organically

Growing without the use of pesticides and herbicides is easier than you may think and it’s better for the environment!

Companion Plants:
Beet, Kale, Collards, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Carrot, Swiss Chard, Corn, Cucumber, Eggplant, Pea, Potato, Radish, Strawberry
What Plants to Avoid:
Chive, Garlic, Leek, Onion
Common Pests:
Common Disease:
Bonus Grow Tips:
The plants have shallow root systems that are easily damaged by cultivation, so take care to hand weed around plants as they establish. Avoid overhead watering.

FREE 30 Days of Backyard Organic Gardening Coaching!

Sign up to receive one email per day covering companion planting, square foot gardening, crop rotations, and more organic growing techniques!

You Have Successfully Signed Up! Happy Growing!

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This