Surat (Gujarat) [India]: Due to the increasing global demand and various utilities, cotton is referred to as “white gold.” It holds a significant place in India’s agricultural and industrial economy. Given its importance, farmers can gain numerous benefits by adopting natural farming practices.
Natural Farming Methods:
- Beejamrit: Enhances the quality of seeds and increases yield.
- Jivamrit: Useful for enriching soil with nutrients and improving aeration.
- Ghan Jivamrit: A compost method that aids in soil fertility.
- Mulching: Protects the soil, retains moisture, and suppresses weed growth.
- Intercropping: Involves growing multiple crops together to maximize production and soil health.
Farmers are encouraged to shift from chemical farming to natural farming, leading to sustainable practices and better yield.
Crop Management Practices for Cotton:
- Before sowing cotton, it is advisable to plant legumes to improve soil health.
- After harvesting previous crops, retain the dry residues to enrich the soil.
- Apply 800 to 1000 kg of Ghan Jivamrit per acre before sowing cotton, followed by plowing.
Water Management during Cotton Cultivation:
- Use 200 liters of Jivamrit mixed with water per acre for irrigation.
- Conduct weeding twice in the first month, then cover the field with mulch.
- Implementing drip irrigation can save water while ensuring the crop’s needs are met.
Role of Jivamrit in Natural Farming:
- It plays a crucial role in enhancing the growth of cotton plants.
- After one month of sowing, spray a mixture of 5 liters of Jivamrit in 100 liters of water on the field.
- Subsequent sprays should include other natural fertilizers like Nimastara, Dashparni Ark, and fermented buttermilk, applied at 10-day intervals.
By properly applying these natural farming techniques, cotton farmers can achieve abundant yields. Compared to conventional farming methods, natural practices offer numerous advantages. Thus, it is imperative to prioritize natural methods for cultivating cotton, the “white gold,” to reap its full benefits.
