Chickpea
Cicer Arietinum
Chickpeas, or Cicer arietinum, are nutritious legumes known for their versatility in cooking. Originating from the Middle East, they are easy to grow and provide a bountiful harvest, making them a popular choice for home gardeners.
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Chickpeas prefer well-drained soil and should be watered deeply but infrequently.
Water the plants every 1-2 weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. In hot weather, you may need to increase watering frequency. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering can cause wilting and stunted growth.
Light
Chickpeas thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Ideal placement is in a south-facing garden bed or container that receives ample sunlight throughout the day. They can tolerate partial shade but will produce fewer pods.
Soil
Ideal soil for chickpeas is sandy loam with good drainage, pH levels between 6.0 and 7.0.
A potting mix that includes compost and perlite can enhance drainage and nutrient content. Ensure that the soil is not compacted to prevent root issues.
Humidity
Chickpeas prefer moderate humidity levels, ideally around 40-60%.
To increase humidity, consider misting the plants or placing a humidifier nearby. Signs of low humidity stress include leaf curling and browning tips.
Temperature
Chickpeas grow best in temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C).
They are hardy in USDA zones 7-11, tolerating light frost but not extreme heat. During the hottest months, provide some shade to prevent heat stress.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-10.
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, starting when plants are 4 inches tall. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and poor pod development.
Pruning
Pruning is not typically necessary for chickpeas, but you can remove any dead or diseased leaves to improve air circulation.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Deadheading is not applicable as chickpeas are grown for their seeds.
Repotting
Chickpeas are usually grown directly in the ground or in large containers.
If grown in pots, repot when roots begin to outgrow the container, typically every 1-2 years. Choose a pot that is 2 inches larger in diameter. Ensure the new pot has good drainage.
Propagation
Chickpeas can be propagated from seeds.
Plant seeds 1-2 inches deep in well-drained soil after the last frost. Space seeds 2-4 inches apart in rows 18-24 inches apart. The best time for planting is in early spring when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F (15°C).
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
This can be caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture levels and reduce watering frequency. Consider applying a balanced fertilizer if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Root rot
Why it happens
Root rot occurs due to poor drainage and over-watering.
How to fix it
Ensure proper drainage in the soil and reduce watering frequency. If root rot is severe, consider replanting healthy plants in fresh soil.
Wilting plants
Why it happens
Wilting can indicate under-watering or heat stress.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture and water deeply if the soil is dry. Provide shade during extreme heat.
Pest infestations (aphids, spider mites)
Why it happens
Pests can thrive in dry conditions and can harm plant health.
How to fix it
Inspect plants regularly and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations.
Poor pod development
Why it happens
This can occur due to inadequate pollination or nutrient deficiencies.
How to fix it
Ensure plants are well-fed and consider hand-pollinating if necessary.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, prepare the soil by tilling and adding compost. Plant seeds after the last frost and ensure adequate watering as they germinate.
Summer
During summer, monitor for pests and water deeply during dry spells. Provide some shade during extreme heat to prevent stress.
Fall
In fall, watch for signs of ripening. Harvest chickpeas when pods are dry and leaves have yellowed. Clean up any debris to prevent disease.
Winter
In winter, if in a warmer zone, protect plants from frost. In colder areas, chickpeas are typically grown as an annual and should not be left outside.
Toxicity & Safety
Chickpeas are non-toxic to pets and children. They are safe to consume, and no parts are known to cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
Good to know
How often should I water my chickpeas?
Water chickpeas every 1-2 weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Adjust frequency based on weather conditions.
What type of soil is best for growing chickpeas?
Chickpeas thrive in sandy loam with good drainage and a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of compost and perlite can enhance soil quality.
When is the best time to plant chickpeas?
The best time to plant chickpeas is in early spring after the last frost, when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F (15°C).
Why are my chickpea leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or nutrient deficiency. Check soil moisture and consider fertilizing if needed.
How can I increase humidity for my chickpeas?
To increase humidity, mist the plants regularly or use a humidifier nearby. Ensure humidity levels remain around 40-60%.
Do chickpeas need full sun?
Yes, chickpeas thrive in full sun and require at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth.
How do I know when to harvest chickpeas?
Harvest chickpeas when the pods are firm and dry, typically 100-120 days after planting. The leaves will also yellow and drop off.
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