Introducing Perilla Oilseed (Perilla frutescens L) Crop in Bangladesh: Evaluating the Best Sowing Time

Abstract

To introduce a new oilseed crop, identifying the optimal sowing time is crucial. In Bangladesh, the perilla oilseed crop has been introduced relatively recently. However, research on determining the optimal sowing time is lacking. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate the best sowing time of Perilla (Perilla frutescens L.) oilseed crop, with a view to introducing it as a commercial and profitable oilseed crop in Bangladesh.  To evaluate sowing dates, 36 trial plots were set (Randomized Complete Block Design) in the Field Laboratory in Sher E Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka. Sowing date were evaluated against seed germination (%), germination time (days), plant height (cm), branches per plant, duration between transplanting to flowering (days), flowering to harvesting (days), single plant dry weight (g), racemes per plant, raceme size (cm), 1000- seed weight (g) and yield (g/plant). Based on the observed lifespan (70–80 days) and seed production potential (1–1.5 t/ha), this research found mid-July to mid-August as the favourable planting dates for cultivating perilla in Bangladesh. With the 70-80-day life cycle, perilla can be harvested before 15 November, facilitating the timely sowing of winter crops in the cropping sequence. Commercial cultivation of Perilla in the Kharif-2 season can contribute to the domestic edible oil supply. The findings of the research will add policy insights for the commercial cultivation of Perilla as a profitable oilseed crop in Bangladesh.