Phenological, plant structure, output and fatty acid composition of chia in response to planting methods, sowing dates, crop geometry in coastal humid tropics of Andhra Pradesh

Chia, esteemed as a vital superfood with extensive medicinal properties, has seen a surge in popularity recently due to its high concentration of heart-beneficial omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in its seeds. Initially cultivated by a few agriculturists near Mysuru, an area traditionally known for finger millet, chia farming has now proliferated to other regions of Karnataka and neighbouring states such as Andhra Pradesh, driven by superior economic returns compared to conventional crops. To optimize the yield and quality attributes of this introduced crop, successful establishment is essential. This research focused on the pivotal factors for cultivating chia under the climatic conditions of Andhra Pradesh, specifically planting techniques, sowing schedules, and crop spacing. The experiment was structured using a factorial randomized block design with 24 treatments, each replicated twice, and was conducted at the Experimental Farm of the College of Horticulture in Venkataramannagudem, West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh, during the Rabi season of 2023-24 (16° 83′ N, 81° 5′ E). The treatments include two planting methods of direct sowing (P1) and transplanting (P2), three crop geometries of 30x45 cm (S1), 30x30 cm (S2), and 30x15 cm (S3), and four sowing dates from the first fortnight of October (D1) to the first fortnight of January (D4) with a monthly interval. The study found significant differences in the length of phenological stages and total life period based on planting methods, sowing dates, and spacing treatments. Direct sowing in the first fortnight of October at a density of 30 x 45 cm (P1DIS1) yielded the highest seed yield, ω3, and ω6 levels, along with an increased harvest index. The coastal humid tropics of Andhra Pradesh (16° 83′ N, 81° 5′ E) offer optimal conditions for chia cultivation using this method.