Chickpeas in the Cotton Belt? Clemson Thinks It’s Possible

If you’ve ever thought chickpeas weren’t cut out for the Southeast—think again. A Clemson University researcher is on a mission to change that… and bring organic farmers a brand-new winter cash crop.

Dr. Dil Thavarajah, a professor of pulse quality and organic breeding, recently landed a $2 million USDA grant to develop chickpea varieties that can thrive in the Southeast’s mild winters. The goal? A short-season, high-protein, flavorful, and digestible chickpea that checks all the boxes for organic growers.

Why chickpeas? They’re not just a plant-based protein powerhouse for people—they also boost soil health and add nitrogen back into the system. And with conventional chickpeas falling short in organic systems, this research could be a game-changer.

The project includes breeding trials across South Carolina, including farms run by Glenn Roberts of Anson Mills and Rollen Chalmers of Hardeeville. Once a solid cultivar is ready, Extension agents will step in to help farmers fold chickpeas into their rotations.

For more information, visit https://news.clemson.edu/researcher-aims-to-develop-chickpeas-as-winter-cash-crop-in-southeast/