Fenugreek, commonly known as “Methi” in India, is a versatile crop grown for its seeds, green leaves, and medicinal properties. It is an essential spice and leafy vegetable widely consumed across India. Fenugreek is valued for its nutritional and medicinal benefits, being rich in protein, iron, fiber, vitamins (A, C, and B6), and antioxidants. It is widely used in cooking, herbal medicines, and even cosmetic products.
India is the largest producer and exporter of fenugreek globally, with major cultivation in states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Punjab. Fenugreek is a cool-season crop, mainly grown during the rabi season in well-drained loamy soils.
To meet the growing demand for fenugreek, Indian agricultural research institutes have developed several high-yielding, disease-resistant, and region-specific varieties. This article highlights more than 10 top fenugreek varieties in India, their characteristics, and regions of cultivation.
1. RMT-1
RMT-1 is a popular high-yielding variety developed for seed production.
- Developed By: Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute
- Duration: 120–130 days (maturity)
- Seed Characteristics: Bold, yellow seeds
- Regions: Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh
- Characteristics:
- Resistant to powdery mildew and root rot.
- High yield potential under irrigated conditions.
- Yield: 15–18 quintals/hectare
- Uses: Seed production and spice markets.
2. Pusa Early Bunching
Pusa Early Bunching is known for its early maturity and high green leaf yield.
- Developed By: IARI, New Delhi
- Duration: 45–55 days for greens; 110–120 days for seeds
- Seed Characteristics: Medium-sized, yellow seeds
- Regions: Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana
- Characteristics:
- Early maturity for quick harvesting.
- Suitable for multiple cuttings of greens.
- Yield: 12–14 quintals/hectare (seeds); 15–20 tonnes/hectare (greens)
- Uses: Fresh greens, salads, and spices.
3. RMT-305
RMT-305 is a high-yielding variety ideal for both green leaves and seed production.
- Developed By: Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute
- Duration: 120–130 days (maturity)
- Seed Characteristics: Bold seeds with uniform size
- Regions: Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh
- Characteristics:
- High resistance to powdery mildew.
- Excellent leaf production and seed yield.
- Yield: 16–18 quintals/hectare
- Uses: Culinary greens and spice seeds.
4. CO-1
CO-1 is a variety developed for green leafy vegetable production.
- Developed By: Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU)
- Duration: 40–45 days for greens
- Seed Characteristics: Small to medium yellow seeds
- Regions: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka
- Characteristics:
- Early maturity with tender green leaves.
- Suitable for warm, tropical climates.
- Yield: 12–15 tonnes/hectare (greens)
- Uses: Fresh greens for cooking and salads.
5. Gujarat Methi-1 (GM-1)
GM-1 is a popular variety in Gujarat due to its high seed yield and adaptability.
- Developed By: Gujarat Agricultural University
- Duration: 120–130 days
- Seed Characteristics: Bold yellow seeds
- Regions: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra
- Characteristics:
- High resistance to common pests and diseases.
- Suitable for semi-arid regions.
- Yield: 15–17 quintals/hectare
- Uses: Seed production for spices.
6. RMt-143
RMt-143 is a fenugreek variety with early maturity and disease resistance.
- Developed By: Rajasthan Agricultural University
- Duration: 110–120 days
- Seed Characteristics: Bold, yellow seeds
- Regions: Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh
- Characteristics:
- Resistant to powdery mildew and leaf spots.
- High yield potential with less input cost.
- Yield: 16–18 quintals/hectare
- Uses: Seeds for culinary and spice purposes.
7. Hisar Sonali
Hisar Sonali is a variety known for its high green leaf yield and disease resistance.
- Developed By: CCS Haryana Agricultural University
- Duration: 45–50 days for greens; 120–125 days for seeds
- Seed Characteristics: Medium-sized seeds
- Regions: Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh
- Characteristics:
- Suitable for multiple cuttings of greens.
- High leaf production with good aroma.
- Yield: 14–16 quintals/hectare (seeds); 18–20 tonnes/hectare (greens)
- Uses: Fresh greens and spice seeds.
8. Pant Ragini
Pant Ragini is a variety suited for cultivation under rainfed conditions.
- Developed By: GBPUAT, Pantnagar
- Duration: 120–130 days
- Seed Characteristics: Medium-sized, light yellow seeds
- Regions: Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand
- Characteristics:
- Tolerant to drought and root rot diseases.
- Good for dryland farming.
- Yield: 14–16 quintals/hectare
- Uses: Spice production.
9. Rajendra Kanti
Rajendra Kanti is a high-yielding variety suitable for eastern India.
- Developed By: RAU, Pusa
- Duration: 120–130 days
- Seed Characteristics: Bold, uniform seeds
- Regions: Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha
- Characteristics:
- High yield potential with minimal inputs.
- Good pest and disease resistance.
- Yield: 15–17 quintals/hectare
- Uses: Seed production for spices.
10. Local Methi
Local methi varieties are cultivated traditionally for green leaves and local seed production.
- Origin: Indigenous
- Duration: 45–60 days for greens; 120–130 days for seeds
- Seed Characteristics: Small to medium yellow seeds
- Regions: Pan-India (small farms)
- Characteristics:
- Suitable for backyard and kitchen gardening.
- Adaptable to diverse agro-climatic conditions.
- Yield: 10–12 quintals/hectare
- Uses: Greens for cooking, seeds for local consumption.
FAQs
Q1: Which state produces the most fenugreek in India?
A: Rajasthan is the largest producer of fenugreek in India, contributing nearly 80% of the total production.
Q2: Which fenugreek variety is best for green leaves?
A: Pusa Early Bunching, CO-1, and Hisar Sonali are popular varieties for green leaf production.
Q3: What is the best season for fenugreek cultivation?
A: Fenugreek is primarily grown in the rabi season (October to February).
Q4: Which fenugreek variety is resistant to powdery mildew?
A: RMT-1, RMT-305, and RMt-143 are resistant to powdery mildew.
Q5: How long does it take for fenugreek to mature?
A: Fenugreek takes 45–60 days for greens and 120–130 days for seed production.
Fenugreek is a vital crop for both farmers and consumers due to its nutritional value and economic importance. Improved varieties like RMT-1, Pusa Early Bunching, Hisar Sonali, and Gujarat Methi-1 offer higher yields, better disease resistance, and adaptability to diverse conditions. By adopting these improved varieties, Indian farmers can enhance productivity and profitability, contributing to the growing domestic and international demand for fenugreek.
