Back J. N. Daniel, P. S. Takawale, V. K. Kauthale and P. K. Kulkarni
BAIF Development Research Foundation, Warje, Pune 411052, India
Full Paper (PDF File: 26 KB)
Abstract
The combination of low organic matter and high contents of gravel and stone is a soil fertility constraint faced by small farmers in semi-arid regions. Because inputs such as farmyard manure are too expensive, alternative soil amendment options are being investigated in a long-term study on a sandy clay soil of high pH in Pune, India. Out of the eight treatments in the study, four included the use of Effective Microorganisms (EM) in the form of compost, soil and foliar spray or in combination with other amendments. Experiments have been completed for four consecutive seasons and the yields of onion, soybean and carrot are presented. Results show non-significant yield increases of 12-16% over the control treatment after the third season. Soil analysis did not show differences among the treatments in soil nutrient content or electrical conductivity. In spite of the relatively smaller quantities of organic matter applied, for example 2.0 t ha-1 season-1 of EM compost, and summer temperatures exceeding 40oC, favourable crop and soil responses have been observed in two years with EM application. Hence soil amendment with EM technology is a promising alternative for degraded farmlands in dry areas.