BUILDING BACK ORGANIC CARBON IN FARMS
In continuation to the topic ‘Understanding the crucial role of organic carbon’…. Restoring organic carbon in farms is crucial for improving soil health, boosting agricultural productivity, and ensuring sustainable farming practices.
STRATEGIES TO RESTORE ORGANIC CARBON
Composting: Converting organic waste into nutrient-rich compost. Increases SOC by 0.2% annually. Improves soil fertility, soil structure, and enhances microbial activity. Collect organic waste (kitchen scraps, plant residues), mix with bulking agents (straw, leaves), maintain moisture, add standard microbials and turn regularly.
Cover Cropping: Growing crops like clover or rye to cover the soil. Increases SOC by up to 0.4% over few years. Reduces soil erosion, improves soil fertility, and adds organic matter. Plant cover crops with growing main crops, let them grow for a full season and incorporate into the soil.
Green Manuring: Growing crops specifically for incorporation into the soil. Adds approximately 0.1% SOC per season. Enhances soil fertility through fixation of nitrogen, adds organic matter, and improves soil structure. Grow plants like mustard or legumes, then till them into the soil before they mature.
Incorporating Crop Residues: Adding leftover crop materials to the soil. Can increase SOC by 0.2-0.3% annually. Improves soil health and provides nutrients. Collect unaffected crop residues and leave on the field or incorporate them into the soil after harvest.
Mulching: Applying organic materials on the soil surface increases SOC, prevents erosion, and conserves moisture. Spread mulch materials such as straw, leaves, or wood chips on the soil surface.
Source: https://www.nrdc.org/stories/composting
https://www.sare.org/resources/cover-crops/
POTENTIAL IMPROVEMENTS
Compost Addition: In a study by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), the addition of 10 tons of compost per hectare increased soil organic carbon by 0.2% and improved crop yields by 15%.
Cover Cropping: Research by the Central Soil Salinity Research Institute (CSSRI) found that cover cropping increased soil organic carbon by 0.3% and reduced soil erosion by 25%.
No-Till Farming: A project by the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) showed that no-till farming practices increased soil organic carbon by 0.15% annually and enhanced water retention by 30%.
Compost Addition: In a study by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), the addition of 10 tons of compost per hectare increased soil organic carbon by 0.2% and improved crop yields by 15%.
Cover Cropping: Research by the Central Soil Salinity Research Institute (CSSRI) found that cover cropping increased soil organic carbon by 0.3% and reduced soil erosion by 25%.
No-Till Farming: A project by the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) showed that no-till farming practices increased soil organic carbon by 0.15% annually and enhanced water retention by 30%.
Agroforestry: The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) reported that agroforestry systems increased soil organic carbon by 0.5% over ten years, contributing to higher crop and timber yields.
Restoring organic carbon in farms through composting, cover cropping, reduced tillage, crop rotation, agroforestry, and biochar application is essential for sustainable agriculture. These strategies lead to improved soil health, enhanced crop productivity, better water management, and significant economic benefits for farmers. By adopting these practices, we can ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of agricultural systems, addressing both current challenges and future demands.
HOW TO SUSTAIN ORGANIC CARBON IN FARMS………?