There are two groups of chickpeas grown in Australia, Desi and Kabuli, mainly distinguished by seed size, shape and colour. They also have different growth requirements, markets and end-users.

Yields are best in areas with reliable seasonal rainfall and mild spring conditions during seed filling. Chickpeas are well suited to well-drained, non-acidic soils of a medium to heavy texture.

The crop is generally sown in winter and harvested in late spring or summer. New South Wales is the state with the highest production, particularly northern NSW, followed by Queensland. Chickpeas are also grown in Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria.

Topics

• Planning/paddock preparation and planting
• Plant growth and physiology
• Nutrition and fertiliser
• Weed and insect control
• Nematode management
• Diseases
• Plant growth regulators and canopy management
• Crop desiccation and spray out
• Harvest and storage
• Environmental issues
• Marketing