Crop rotation

Crop rotation is a systematically planned cultivation cycle that involves growing plants of different taxonomic families on the same plot of land over sequential seasons. Usually extending over a period of 3-4 years, the choice and sequence of rotation crops usually depends on the nature of the soil, the climate, and rainfall of that particular region.

Composting

A compost is any organic matter that has been decomposed – it is a good fertilizer and soil conditioner that restores the soil texture and makes the soil nutrient rich. There are many techniques of composting, but primarily they may be classified into three – Hot composting, Worm composting and Fermentation.

Organic fertilizers

It comprises of organic matter in various forms such as living or dead plant and animal material to the soil to enhancing the soil nature. Organic matter supplies raw materials to naturally occurring bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms in the soil. Natural substances like manure, slurry, seaweeds etc. are good sources of organic fertilizers. Humic acid, compost and seaweed extracts are some other popular processed organic fertilizers.

Green pesticides

With the growing concerns of chemical deposits on produce and ground water contamination by chemical pesticides, more and more farmers are looking for eco friendlier alternatives like gomutra, tree extracts etc.

Permanent raised beds

A popularly used technique at GEV which involves creating a raised soil bed comprising of wood, sticks and dry foliage and covered with soil. The raised bed technique not only facilitates better aeration, but as the wood decomposes in due course, the released heat aids the decomposition process. The raised bed is an excellent technique for growing fruits and vegetables in inhospitable temperatures and altitudes and has been specifically adopted in GEV for it provides good water drainage facility during the rainy season.

Companion planting

A traditional technique of planting crops of different variety together that complement each other aid mutual growth. Plants assist themselves by supplying nutrients, repelling pests, increasing pollination, nitrogen fixation etc. Not only does this technique increase the crop productivity, but also increases the productivity of land by facilitating growth of multiple crops simultaneously.

The top soil which contains all the vital elements, takes centuries to develop and hence needs careful protection against erosion and runoff. Mulching is a standard organic farming practice that prevents soil erosion by using a protective cover over the soil. Dry foliage, natural grasses, jute bags are some of the commonly used means of mulching.