How to grow lentil
Overview
Lentil (Lens culinaris) is a cool-season legume grown for its edible seeds and tender pods. It is a productive crop for home gardeners, especially in dry climates. Regular picking of pods can encourage continued production.
Varieties
- Aldinga — Large-seeded green lentil, popular in Australian home gardens.
- Nipper — Red lentil suited to drier conditions, cooks quickly.
- Bodalla — Australian-bred variety with good disease resistance.
- Kyeema — Brown lentil well adapted to dry areas, reliable yields.
- Northfield — Small brown lentil excellent for soups and stews.
Soil Preparation
Lentil prefers sandy loam with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Amend heavy clay with organic matter to improve drainage. Avoid waterlogged soils; raised beds are beneficial in wetter areas.
Growing Guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Sow seeds 2-3 cm deep, spaced 5 cm apart, with rows 30-40 cm apart. In cool and temperate zones sow in early spring after frost risk; in Mediterranean zones sow in autumn. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering once plants are established to promote deep rooting.
Sowing
Direct sow seeds 2-3 cm deep, spaced 5 cm apart, in rows 30-40 cm apart. Soak seeds overnight to speed germination (7-14 days). Sow in early spring or autumn depending on climate zone.
Care
Apply a low-nitrogen fertiliser (such as a phosphorus-rich blend) at flowering to support pod set. No pruning is necessary; provide light staking if plants become top-heavy. Remove spent plants promptly to reduce disease risk.
Companion Planting
Lentil thrives alongside carrots, celery, cucumbers, corn, and potatoes. Avoid planting near onions, garlic, and other alliums, which may stunt lentil growth. Good companions also include summer savory and dill.
Common Pests & Risks
Aphids are common on young growth; use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Fungal diseases such as Ascochyta blight and root rot occur in wet conditions; avoid overhead watering and ensure good drainage. Rotate crops to reduce soil-borne disease.
Harvesting
For dry seeds, harvest when lower pods turn brown and seeds rattle inside. For fresh pods, pick when pods are plump but still green. Pull up whole plants when most pods are dry and allow to cure in a dry, ventilated area before threshing.
In the Kitchen
Harvested dry lentils store in airtight containers for up to a year. Red lentils cook quickly (15-20 min) without soaking; green and brown lentils require 30-45 min. Use in soups, stews, dhals, and salads.
Troubleshooting
Yellowing leaves: often from overwatering or poor drainage; reduce water and improve soil. Poor pod set: lack of pollination due to cold or wind; ensure full sun and attract pollinators. Fungal diseases (grey mould): space plants and avoid overhead watering. Aphid infestation: spray with neem oil or use beneficial insects. Root rot: remove affected plants and rotate legumes out of same spot for 3 years.