Don’t just buy lentils, grow them. In an article on Health For Mzansi, experts share practical insights into cultivating lentils, managing pests, harvesting timing, and understanding the nutritional benefits of these protein-packed legumes.
According to agronomist Kwanele Dlamini, it is important to provide lentils with neutral soil, good drainage, and a moderate pH level. Aspiring farmers can learn about the specific environmental conditions that lentils thrive in, including plenty of sunlight and cooler weather, and watering techniques.
“Please note: Do not water lentils once the pods start to dry, which usually happens close to the harvest season,” he shares.
Dlamini also discusses common pests like aphids and weevils that can affect lentil crops. As well as the best times to harvest lentils.
“Of course, there is always that one guy or guys who always trying to steal your stuff. Well, in this case, these guys are aphids, weevils, and sometimes mildew if the length between two crops is small or too close because then it easily jumps from one crop to the other.”
Plant pathologist and nutritionist insights
Plant pathologist Sibongile Jiyane and registered dietitian Megan Pentz-Kluyts highlight the nutritional benefits of lentils, including their high protein content and rich concentration of phenols.
“Although there are many parallels between lentils and legumes, there are also some variances. Legumes and lentils are both excellent dietary sources of fibre, protein, and other nutrients.”
Pentz-Kluyts also explains how lentils are an “incomplete protein” but can be complemented by grains like rice, oats, and wheat to provide essential amino acids.
“The proteins do not need to be eaten together to receive the health benefits but any time within 24 hours will suffice.”
This article was first published on Health For Mzansi and written by Vateka Halile
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