Mungbeans only require 60-80cm of wet soil.

Jayne Gentry, industry development officer with the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI), said mungbeans could be planted right through to late January on the Darling Downs, early February on the Western Downs and late February in Central Queensland in those areas where rain had fallen.

“The mungbean price remains strong with No.1 processing grade beans currently being contracted at around $800/t (machine dressed and bagged),” Ms Gentry said.

“However, mungbeans are not like other grain crops and there are a number of steps growers should take.

“Growers must ensure an even, adequate plant population is achieved. That means targeting populations of 20-30 plants/m2 for dryland or 30-40 plants/m2 for irrigation.

“Calculate your planting rate each year as it can vary greatly depending on variety, germination and planting conditions, and only plant good quality seed.

“Planting seed should be replaced every three years. When planting new seed, ideally only purchase seed that is clearly labelled Australian Mungbean Association (AMA) approved seed to ensure it is of high quality.

“This is particularly important this year as the high demand has resulted in seed stock running very low.”

Ms Gentry said it was also important to achieve effective insect control as damage could significantly affect the overall profitability of a mungbean crop reducing both yield and seed quality.

“It is recommended that you employ a mungbean accredited agronomist to assist you in your decision making,” she said.

* For more information visit www.mungbean.org.a u.