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SIX STEPS TO MAKE AGRICULTURE AN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY

Posted on by nkp — 17 Comments ↓

AGRICULTURE AN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY – FOLLOW THESE SIX STEPS

Farmer is the real king. He owes nothing to anybody. He works as per his will and pleasure. Out of his labor, mother earth provides all types of boons to the mankind for its very survival. Agriculture is an Economic Activity. However, no factories producing mechanized gadgets, arms, clothes and what not can do what farmer does – provide nourishing and necessary food articles. There is a saying in Hindi, “Uttam Kheti madhyam Ban Adham Chakri Bheekh Nidhan”. Translated into English, it means that for human beings agriculture is the best profession, followed by Business, followed by Service and last is Begging.

All nations salute two classes – its soldiers and its farmers.

Given such a high place in the society, it is worth considering why the farming community at most places is under stress. That it is under stress is beyond doubt.

Just compare the cost of food articles and others such as cloth, steel, petrol, gold, land, rents etc. etc. in the past, say twenty years ago, and today. Prices of all others are far far higher than those of food articles which are only marginally higher. That is the stress of the farmers. True their land value is going up but the produce value is just even stevens.

A farmer is forever egged on to increase the production to get some marginally higher returns. Meanwhile due to expansion of family, the land available per farmer goes on decreasing. Value of fertilizers, the labor rates, machinery costs keep on mounting. That is farmer stress.

The root cause of stress is artificially lowered rates of his produce by governments of the world. Why – so that people and the government can spend money after money on entertainment, lavish lifestyle, arms race, etc. etc. That is why farmers are going into service and other businesses. That is farmer stress. No value in Agricultural  an Economic Activity!

However that is not what this blog concerned about. It is only concerned about what can be done to alleviate farmer stress. How the pristine glory of farming can be restored.  How to revitalise agriculture as an Economic Value way of life.

AND THAT MEANS INCREASING INCOME OF FARMER IN SYNC WITH GENERAL PRICE INCREASE.

THE SOLUTION: TREAT AGRICULTURE AS AN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY — AS ANY OTHER INDUSTRY. CALCULATE YOUR INVESTMENT, PROFITS AND LOSSES.

So Farmer friends, say NO MORE to HIT AND RUN techniques of yore. I give below the SIX most essential steps to plan agricultural activity in your farm designed to raise the income. Just forget how you or your elders did farming and follow, if you like, the steps suggested. So here we go.

Be knowledgeable (to make agriculture an economic activity)

Climate change is no longer a big ticket discussion topic now; it is happening – climate change is happening. Farmer needs to tune in to the weather predictions, study the pattern changes and do planting/sowing accordingly.

What WiKi says about climate change

Wiki has following explanation on this climate changes.

“The effects of global warming in the Arctic, or climate change in the Arctic include rising air and water temperatures, loss of sea ice, and melting of the Greenland ice sheet with a related cold temperature anomaly, observed since the 1970s. Related impacts include ocean circulation changes, increased input of freshwater, and ocean acidification. Indirect effects through potential climate teleconnections to mid latitudes may result in a greater frequency of extreme weather events (flooding, fires and drought), ecological, biological and phenology changes, biological migrations and extinctions, natural resource stresses and as well as human health, displacement and security issues. Potential methane releases from the region, especially through the thawing of permafrost and methane clathrates, may occur.

Presently, the Arctic is warming twice as fast compared to the rest of the world. The pronounced warming signal, the amplified response of the Arctic to global warming, is often seen as a leading indicator of global warming. The melting of Greenland’s ice sheet is linked to polar amplification. According to a study published in 2016, about 0.5°C of the warming in the Arctic has been attributed to reductions in sulfate aerosols in Europe since 1980”.

Keep updated Soil and Water data

Another aspect of Being Knowledgeable is update soil and water data on a regular way. This will allow farmer to change fertilizer quantities and fertilization schedules as required by the particular crop – what is called DESIGNER CROPPING. This will save costs on use of excess or unrequired fertilizers and time on unnecessary fertilization scheduling.

Go for Variety

Agriculture scientists world over have found, and keep on finding, varieties of different agriculture seeds, plants etc., which have more power to resist diseases and viruses. And even pest resistant. And require less watering. There are methods of inter cropping which provide big benefits of fertilization and also of pest resistance. And then one can plant two types together to protect from pests. Farmers please this is a big subject and it is not possible to deal with this in this blog. But I hope you understand what is being said in this Para.

Great to have farms close to home

Man is by nature a social animal and likes to lives in a cluster – a village, a city. This puts a strain on a farmer as then he is away from his farm for considerable time in a day. In some analysis done elsewhere, it was found that a successful farmer had his home where his farm was. This becomes one of the essentials for success in farming in developing economies.  The developed economies, with easy availability of satellite based visual and sensor monitoring provides comfort – though travel times still exist.

Diversify or don’t put all your eggs in one basket

Farming based purely on agriculture is a losing business. Farmers need to diversity – make farming an all-encompassing activity which runs all 12 months, all days, all the year round like any other economic activity or an industrial activity. Planning, Supervision, Monitoring and Control Techniques as applied to industry need to be applied to farming as well, and in the same routinized manner diligently. Dairy, Poultry, Agriculture, Storage, Value Addition… (Tomato ketchup), .Dairy would provide good amount of fertilizers to the field for your crops as required. Farmer would also make his own type of pesticides. Storage allows freedom from distress selling. Plant would allow utilizing unsold inventory of fruits and vegetables to be put into bottles can be sold to neighborhood malls. Earmark some part of your land for poly houses where due to large control on environment all year round production is possible.

Idea is not to put all your eggs in one basket. So always farmer would have fail safe options to remain financially viable.

Be Ready With Strategies and Solutions for Any Risks.

Like in war Like in peace. Never take things for granted. There is some where a law which says that if things can wrong, likely they will go wrong. You may have ploughed beautifully, sown the best seeds, given the best fertilizer, the sun is bright, and things seem good. But what happens weather all of a sudden turns bad, locusts arrive from nowhere, there are so many things which can go bad for a farmer. Farming is not a controlled environment activity. It is here that farmer needs to be ready with pre-thought out responses to such exigencies and ready with solutions for same. New seeds, special spray material and machines for same, fast response all would count.

Conserve and Transform Waste into Fertilizer and Pesticides.

It is very obvious and yet so many of us would burn the residuals from wheat, rice, vegetables and what not. NO the correct thing is conserve and transforms all such waste in to fertilizers and pesticides. There are a number of methods how to do it. The easiest is to put all waste in a heap and let it rot into fine fertilizer material. The process can be accentuated by layering it with dung material and also by worms. I would refer to my blog on same.

Keep Up With government Schemes but Not Be Blinded By miss-selling By Agencies.

Governments do try to alleviate problems faced by agriculturists. They do it in various ways. It is done according to agreed formula in the WTO forum. This is so that global marketing is competitive. Governments directly or through its various agencies provides for incentive s and subsidies separately working in fields of agriculture or horticulture or floriculture or vegetable production or fisheries etc. Now the farmer faced with a number of schemes needs to concentrate on what would be really beneficial to him. There are schemes which could have riders attached requiring farmers to delve in newer activities. Newer activities could clash with the routinized activities of farmer and may sometimes not result in any gains at all.

Always Maintain a Balance Sheet of Expenditure and Income.

This is one of the most essential activities. So what is a balance sheet? It is a statement of financial position of your agricultural and allied economic activities where your assets, liabilities and your own equity are shown at a particular time, generally once a year. It shows your net worth.

Have also your Income Statement and Cash Flows statement updated.One needs to count all the monies, expend it well to obtain calculated returns on same. Allocate funds in the beginning, plan for fund flows (as you sell your produce) and for investment on items such as seeds, fertilizer, water, electricity, purchase of new equipment, maintenance, wages for labor employed and salary and bonus for yourself and savings for next cycle.

A very strict monitoring is required, monetary discipline being the key. Normally a farmer does not fuss about such matters; but believe me it is a must must. As the title of this blog says AGRICULTURE IS AN ECONOMIC ACTIVITY. And profits out of this activity must be had.

Do you realize your anticipated profits? please do share.

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THREE STEPS TO FUTURE AGRICULTURE

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“Agriculture exists first to feed people and has done so for thousands of years, and it will have to continue doing the same for hopefully many more.” FAO Each second, the world’s population grows by nearly three more people, that is 240 000 people a day. By 2025, the global population will reach 8 billion people and 9.6 billion by 2050, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). That is an extra billion mouths to feed within the next decade. And in just one generation, there will be more people additional on the planet than there were at the beginning of the 20th century. That is a BIG WAKE UP CALL FOR BOOSTING AGRICULTURE PLANNING FOR FUTURE. The first step then is to spread awareness and to educate our Farmers whom I shall refer in this blog as Agrarian Industrialists. Oh yes, make no mistake agriculture is an industry and one which employs perhaps the largest workforce.

There are THREE STEPS to this awareness and education program.

  1. Awareness to Diminishing returns on classical farming methods still being followed by a large majority of Agrarian Industrialists.
  2. Adopt existing newer technologies fully towards sustainable and incremental returns.
  3. Inform Agrarian Industrialists about future farming practices to really explode production and income (and reverse diminishing returns).

STEP ONE:

Be aware to Diminishing Returns on classical farming methods still being followed. Diminishing Returns – WHY? Several Reasons, but the TOP ONES ….
  • Shrinking Farm sizes due to division of land over generations, progress of urbanization, factories, hospitals, educational centers, etc. and other reasons.
  • Drying and dying water sources due to increased water consumption needs of an ever growing human race. Even the river origins are getting inhabited!
  • Fertilizer to output yields decreasing due to increase in saltiness in earth.
  • Chemical resistant pests and virus require ever increasing dosages. The high dosages retained in produce are then dangerous for human consumption.
  • Government policy directives banning use of several pesticides and insecticides which the environmental scientists and researchers found dangerous for humans and bees.
  • A Growing Go-Back-To-Organic movement; there is preference for a produce which carries “organically grown” tag.

STEP TWO:

Adopt existing new technologies fully towards sustainable and incremental returns. SWITCH immediately to NOW READY technologies – HOW? (May be useful to go over this list even for those Agrarian Industrialists who are into it already)
  • Use more capital intensive practices than hitherto being followed.
  • Switch to Protected Cultivation. Vegetables are the best candidate.
  • Agrarian Industrialists could make a grouping amongst themselves to get benefit of Larger Scale of operations;
  • Implant Soil and Water Sensors distributed in fields. With ready moisture and nitrogen data of their fields, decisions result in more efficient use of precious resources of water and fertilizer. This also aids in water and fertilizer conservation. Wastage and leakages to ponds, wells and rivers is avoided.
  • Use drip and sprinklers for irrigation and fertigation.
  • Use government and community broadcasts on weather predictions for planning activities. Agrarian Industrialists would also not be caught unaware of adverse weather.
  • Group farming aids in Integrated Farming as well. Opens up more income generating streams. Big benefit ‘Produce your own fertilizers at your time’.

STEP THREE:

INFORM Agrarian Industrialists about future farming practices to really explode production and income (and reverse diminishing returns). Plan for Future Ready Technologies:
  • Time to move to more capital intensive and KNOWLEDGE BASED practices. So while keeping up with what was suggested above, more is required;
  • Use Internet of Things (IoT). IoT is the art of connecting and integrating objects, people, information and systems for intelligent production and services.
  • Use data analysis which would be available through aerial satellite imagery, greenness sensors, soil maps and millions of weather data points.
  • Use of intelligent sensors for moisture, fertilizer, soil and weather so that AIs keep an eye on their crops and field (with the help of satellite and mobile technologies) without going to every corner of their fields (and even from their home).
  • Use automation. Too much farm labor reduces performance. Tractors in auto mode for all types of work. Irrigation and fertigation ON DEMAND.
  • Use the internet and sites of their government and other agencies to track the crops, yields, price movements, shortfall and excess production stats, weather, etc. Plan accordingly to produce what crop, with what aim, and when for optimizing returns. AIs need to be ahead of inflation index and decide on percentage increase year-on-year. This keeps up with real income parity.
  • Diversify to organic, GMO or non-GMO (his choice depending on his country’s policy), corn, soy, vegetable oils, high worth and exotic vegetables, etc.
  • Wean away from water guzzling comfort crops like wheat, rice and sugarcane to conserve on precious water in areas prone to water scarcity.
  • It is the practice of producing food in vertically stacked layers. Most of present Vertical Farming production is in urban areas itself and so transport is minimal. Fresh food is available faster and at lower cost. However, vertical farming is well adaptable to AIs as well. Farmers in all areas can use it to make better use of available land and to grow crops that wouldn’t normally be viable in those locations. Capital Intensive, why yes but returns are said to be great.
  • The beauty of what has been suggested lies in the ease and simplicity of its execution. By a device owned almost by everybody – the SMART MOBILE PHONE.
It is a struggle in which our Farmers, the Agrarian Industrialists, have been engaged from time immortal since farming began. And the struggle shall go on. But there are many new technologies to the aid of Agrarian Industrialists now and more developing faster. Adoption of technology and keeping an eye on the commodity churning on a routine manner is the need of the hour. Agrarian Industrialist also needs big help by the governments (and it is available already in different form in different countries). Like the human race does, adapting to changes in farming methods too is the mantra for success. Adapt to computer aided agriculture.
Posted in farm guide, TechTalks Tagged with: , , , , , , ,

WHEAT FARMING

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Interested in WHEAT Farming ?

Some Introduction to WHEAT

Wheat is a staple cereal for a large population worldwide. It is difficult to believe of human sustenance without wheat. Wikipedia records that Wheat is grown on more land area than any other food crop. World trade in wheat is greater than for all other crops combined. In 2016, world production of wheat was 749 million tonnes, making it the second most-produced cereal after maize. Wheat is an important source of carbohydrates, protein, nutrients and fiber.

The seeds of wheat grass are cereal grains, and are staple food for millions of human beings. Botanically,wheat kernel is a type of fruit called ‘caryopsis’ – a type of simple dryfruit. Other such caryopsis is maize and rice.

Wheat is believed to have been cultivated in the regions of the Fertile Crescent around 9600 Before Common Era (BCE). By 6500 BCE it seems to have reached Greece, Cyprus and India. By 3000 BCE it reached British Isles and a millennium later China.(source: Wikipedia)

Classification of WHEAT

Wheat is named differently in different places. Whatever the names, classification methods for wheat varieties follow same standards:

Growing season – winter grown or summer grown.

Protein content. High, Medium or Low.

The quality of the wheat protein gluten. This protein can determine the suitability of wheat for a particular use.

Grain color – red,white or amber. Phenolic compounds present in the bran layer impart color to wheat grains.

Nutrition provided by WHEAT

Wheat provides carbohydrates, proteins, nutrients and fiber. Generally as an average, 100 grams wheat provides about 320 kilo calories.It also provides  multiple  essential  nutrients such as protein, vitamins, fiber, minerals. Wheat has about 13% water, 70% carbohydrates and negligible fat. Its 13% protein content is mostly gluten.

Commercial Use

Worldwide wheat is cultivated as cash crop and wheat farmers benefits from such cultivation. Wheat can be easily stored. Use of wheat flour in different ways is done, the best example being bread which is almost universally eaten across the world. Stored wheat is a highly concentrated form of food

Different countries Different Yields

According to Wikipedia, the average annual world farm yield for wheat in 2014 was 3.3 tonnes per hectare (330 grams per square meter). Among the top most productive farmers were: 1.Ireland with a nationwide average of 10.0 tonnes per hectare, 2. Netherlands(9.2), and 3. Germany, New Zealand and the United Kingdom (each with 8.6).https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheat#cite_note-fao-prod2014-7

Top WHEAT producers in 2014

Countrymillions of tonnes
 European Union157.3
 China126.2
 India95.8
 Russia59.7
 United States55.1
 France39.0
 Canada29.3
 Germany27.8
 Pakistan26.0
 Australia25.3
 Ukraine24.1
World720
Source: UN Food & Agriculture Organization[7]

Suitable climate for WHEAT growing

It is grown under a wide range of climatic conditions. However, it can not stand too hot or too cold weather. It prefers moderate temperature in summer as well as in winter. Short days are not favorable for the formation of bulbs. Winter wheat lies dormant during winter and grows rapidly in spring. Too cold conditions damage the crop. Spring wheat is sown just as spring starts and harvested in summer. Winter wheat makes for fine flour.

Land Preparation

field ploughed and ready

field ready for plantation

Wheat grows in many types of soil, but it grows best in well-drained loam or clay-loam soils. Two major threats to the wheat plant’s growth are poor soil drainage and high levels of soil acidity. The wheat roots penetrate earth at shallow depths maybe around 6-7 cm. Land needs to be well pulverized. For this land maybe first irrigated and then ploughed two or three times. The seed and initial fertilizers (and if required pesticides and fungicides, depending on the soil) are then planted together. Thereafter one ploughing and one leveling is done so that there is no water drainage problems. This also eliminates any other type of vegetation in the field.

Sowing Methods

  1. Broadcasting: In this method the seeds are broadcast and then worked in by harrowing in order to cover them.
  2. Behind Local Plough: A majority of farmers uses this method. This method consists of dropping the seeds by hand into the furrows that have been opened with local plough.
  3. Drilling: In this method seed is sown by specially made drills called seed drill or ferti-seed drill. With the help of this implement seed drop at desired depth and results in uniform germination and regular stand.
  4. Dibbling: This method is used in case where supply of seed is limited. Sowing is done with the help of a small implement known as ‘Dibbler’. It is a wooden or iron frame with pegs. The frame is pressed in the field and lifted and then one or two seeds are dropped by hand in each of the hole. It is not a common method because it is a very time consuming process.
  5. Zero tillage technique: This new method is used in Rice-Wheat cropping system so that rice stubble need not be removed or destroyed but is utilized as a fertilizer itself. Specially made machines are used for this method.

Depth of sowing

Deep sowing may delay or stifle emergence, while shallow sowing risks seed damage from herbicide uptake. The length of the first shoot (coleoptile) has a bearing on depth of sowing. If a variety is sown deeper than the natural growth extension of the coleoptile, then seedling may not emerge. Most current varieties are derived from so called semi-dwarf lines which have shorter stems and shorter coleoptiles than older varieties.

Depth of sowing depends on soil type and availability of moisture influence. Sowing depths indicated are between 25mm and 50mm depending on soil type and available moisture. Moist conditions shallower depth placements may encourage faster emergence and crop establishment.

Quantity of seed

Farmers aim to achieve a crop density of 150-200 plants per square meter.  This means around 60kg/ha seeding rate in lower rainfall zones (up to 400mm annual rainfall) and around 80-90kg/ha in the higher rainfall zones.

Manures and Fertilizers

Fertilizer application actually depends upon the soil of the farmer. It is recommended to have the soil and water analyzed before deciding on the actual quantity of fertilizers. As a normal practice the following fertilizers are indicated for wheat farming.

Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, zinc, copper,boron, manganese, iron, and magnesium are required by wheat and most of them are available in soil. Nitrogen is required in the largest amount because it is part of all the proteins in the plant. High yields require higher nitrogen. Wheat also needs a lot of phosphorus, most of which ends up in the grain. Farmer may give 3kg/ha of phosphorus per tonne of expected yield. Other nutrients from the soil are needed in smaller amounts, but all must be present for healthy plant growth and color.

Farm Yard Manure is highly desirable in the land, whatever be the crop. It is same with wheat also. Mixing of  around 2 to 2.5 tonnes of FYM per hectares is sufficient. Apart from FYM, it is also recommended to give following fertilizers.

Nitrogen (N) @80 – 120 kg/ha, Phosphorus (P2O5) @ 40- 60 kg/ha and
Potash (K2O) @ 40 kg/ha.

Total quantity of Phosphorus and potash and half the quantity of nitrogen should be applied at the time of sowing. Remaining quantity of Nitrogen should be applied at the time of crown root initiation.

It is recommended to have soil studies done before sowing and application of fertilizers to arrive at correct estimates of fertilizers required. Micro nutrients, if indicated by the soil report, are also to be supplemented.

Weed Management

Generally weeding is done after 1 ½ to 2 months after sowing.

Farmers have to plan for weed control quite well in advance. A number of herbicides are available for controlling weed problem. As a good practice, it is recommended to rotate herbicides. This will take care of any development resistance to any particular herbicide.  The weeds must not be allowed to grow to a threat level. Some herbicides are as follows: (mix all in 250 -300 liters of water/ha)

  1. Fenoxaprop-ethyl @ 89 to 120 gram/ha
  2. Cipdomafpr @ 400 gms a.i./ha
  3. Metribuyzin @ 175 gms a.i./ha
  4. Sulfosulfuran @ 25 gms a.i./ha
  5. Fenoxaprop-ethyl @ 80to 120 gms a.i./ha

Irrigation

  • 1st irrigation 3-4 weeks after sowing
  • 2nd irrigation 40-45 days after sowing
  • 3rd irrigation at 60 to 65 days after sowing
  • 4th irrigation 80-85 days after sowing
  • 5th irrigation 100-105
  • 6th 115 -120 days

Control of Pests and Diseases

Some information on insects, pests and disease of Wheat is discussed below. The control measures depend upon type and intensity of the problems and also whether organic or inorganic pesticides are to be used as decided by the Farmer. For more information on pests and diseases please go through my blog on same.

Downey Mildew: spraying Dithane M-45 at interval is recommended.

Green Jassids: spray of chloropyrofos/ dichlorvos/dimethoate/phorate/imidacloprid

Shoot and Fruit Borer: spray endosulfan/chloropyrofos. Spread phorate.

White Fly: spray malathion. Drench with thimet.

Thrips: spray imidaclorprid/chloropyrofos/dimethoate. Several sprays may be required.

Some supposed Health Benefits of Wheat

This vegetable has a long history in traditional medicine. It has nutrients, vitamins, minerals and other organic compounds which gives wheat a special medicinal value.

The nutritional value of 100g of edible Wheat is said to be equivalent to 12 gm protein, 1.5 gm fat,71 gm carbohydrate, 3.2 gm minerals and 12.2 gm fibers. It contains vitamin B-6,vitamin C, iron and calcium. It’s low in calories and has a high dietary fiber content. There would be minor variations in between varieties.

It is good in lowering of blood sugar levels !

Wheat has been suggested to help manage blood sugar due to presence of sulfur compounds (S-methylcycsteine) and quercetin. These compounds have a beneficial effect in controlling the blood sugar level in the body.

Quercetin in red wheats have significant role in destroying breast and colon cancer cells.

The same compound also prevents release of histamine in body. This helps in allergies.

Some other Benefits are thought to be in help in asthma and allergic rhinitis by using wheat extracts.  The use of wheat is also good for eyes, oral healthcare and hair healthcare.

Risks of eating WHEAT

Like with everything which has good properties, Wheat may also have some side effects. It is true that only a few studies Wheat have linked to negative side effects.

Over consumption of wheat for diabetic patients can be harmful.

It goes without saying that Wheat can contain bacteria, pesticides, and other dangerous substances if it is not thoroughly washed before flour is made.

Harvesting and Storage

The rain-fed crop reaches the harvest stage much earlier than the irrigated crop. The crop is harvested when the grains become hard and the straw becomes dry and brittle.Depending on the scale of planting, farmers would utilize Harvester Machine or harvest manually by laborers. The crop is threshed by treading with power driven thresher by most of the farmers. However, at some places farmers of small land holdings or deprived of machines still use  cattle on the threshing-flour.

Storage

The grains should be thoroughly dried before storage. The storage life of the grain is closely related to its moisture content. Grains with less than 10 percent moisture store well. The storage pits, bins or godowns should be moisture-proof and should be fumigated. Rat proofing is a must. Zinc phosphide is very effective against rats.

 note: The author himself is a small farmer and involved with such farming. Certain data are taken from usually reliable sources on the net.

 

Posted in Cereals Tagged with: , ,

Farming Tools, Implements And Equipment

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Must Have List of Farming Tools,

Implements And Equipment

Farmer needs to undertake a number of activities on a routine basis. The activities take a troll on the time and money of the farmer. Fortunately as mankind has evolved,  more and more systematic methods of farming have evolved. These depend on a number of tools, implements and equipment. We shall discuss only some of the more important ones.

Tools and equipment are terms that are often used interchangeably without knowing the actual difference between tools and equipment, but in fact, they have different definitions.

TOOLS:

What is meant is a simple type of equipment which is used manually by the farmer. The tools are all hand held and operated manually.

Tools examples:

  1. Fork Hoe: this tool is to be used for loosening, lifting and turning over soil by gardeners or farmers.
  2. Spade and shovel: this tool is to be used to break any lumps in soil. The tool is angled forward for digging and scooping.
  3. Sickle: this tool is used for harvesting. It has a curved blade and wooden handle.
  4. Cutlass: this tool is a flat metal long blade with a wooden handle with one sharp edge for clearing of bushes, cutting of tree branches, etc.
  5. Water can

IMPLEMENTS:

Are meant as appendages to mechanized machinery and add more value to that piece of machinery. Implements when added allow the machine to be used for different type of usages. Implements would be pulled or pushed by the machinery to be able to perform its designated purpose. The implements need to be pulled manually, by bullocks or by tractors and made accordingly. Now a days tractors are used extensively though there are places where by necessity oxens or manual method has to be used.

Implements examples:
  1. Cultivator: This implements is used for removing weeds, preparing soil for planting.

    cultivator

    cultivator

    The use of this implement allows soil to be aerated and also water can penetrate down to roots.

  2. Harrow: This implements is used after ploughing operations. It will smooth out the field surfaces.
  3. Plough: This implement lus used for turning over the upper layer of the soil so that fresh nutrients are brought up, buried weeds and remains of previous crops.

 

MACHINERY:

Used by farmers by definition is a mechanized equipment which can run on electric or diesel or petrol or hydraulic. Machinery is to apply force and control movement for an intended action. Most of farm machinery is still operated by human but there is a gradual introduction of machinery which is smart and can run according to program pre fed into its computer. A common machinery used extensively on farms is TRACTOR.

Examples of Machines:
  1. Tractor: Probably the most used and most important machinery in a farm. It is used for pulling or pushing agricultural for planting, tilling, ploughing, harrowing etc.
  2. Harvester: Mechanical harvesting is the order of the day these days due to problems of farm laborers. Larger amount of crop can be harvested quickly and most efficiently.
  3. Knapsack Sprayer: this machine could be manual, electric or petrol driven. It is used to apply soluble pesticides to plants. A much used piece of equipment.

Tractor

Wikipedia has the following description for tractors.

tractor

tractor

A tractor is an engineering vehicle specifically designed to deliver at a high tractive effort at slow speeds, for the purposes of hauling a trailer or machinery used in agriculture or construction.

The most common use of the term “tractor” is for the vehicles used on farms. The farm tractor is used for pulling or pushing agricultural machinery or trailers, for plowing, tilling, disking, harrowing, planting, and similar tasks. The word tractor was taken from Latin, being the agent noun of trahere “to pull”. The first recorded use of the word meaning “an engine or vehicle for pulling wagons or ploughs” occurred in 1896, from the earlier term “traction engine”.

Tractors can be generally classified by number of axles or wheels, with main categories of two-wheel tractors (single-axle tractors) and four-wheel tractors (two-axle tractors).

2-wheel tractors:  it is a single axle tractor, self powered and self propelled. It can both pull and power various farm implements such as trailer, cultivator, harrow, plough, seeders, harvesters.  When pulling some implement, operator can ride on the tractor.

 

Sprayers:

Manual Backpack Sprayer

Manual Backpack Sprayer

Sprayers are used to apply soluble or dry chemicals suitable for fighting pests, virus and infections in the plants. There are a number of sprayers distinguished by their design – manual, electric and petrol driven. The nozzles of sprayers also come in different designs to provide for desired droplet size and spread geometry.

During the process of spraying certain losses occur which could cause dangers to environment. Although sprayers are designed to apply the right doses of chemicals to the target area, the spray tends also to spread further than intended because of air currents. The spray on the plants also either deposits on the leaves or runs down thru the earth to water bodies and contaminates water therein though seepage, leeching and drainage.

Depending on the volume of spray per square area, the sprayers are generalized into three categories:

  1. High Volume will spray more than 150 l/ha. Used for pesticides, fungicides, herbicides applications by khanpsack sprayer, motorized spray, tractor mounted sprayers.
  2. Low Volume for 10-150 l/ha. Used for insecticides, fungicides applications by motorized knapsack sprayers, aircraft mounted sprayers.
  3. Ultra Low Volume for 1-5 l/ha. Used for well controlled insecticides applications by high r.p.m.  spinning disc in motorized knapsack sprayers. The limiting of insecticide solution reduces any contamination to water bodies and is economic in usage.

 

 

Posted in implements&machinery

GROW ONION THE RIGHT WAY

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onion farming

onion farming

ONION farming and uses

Some introduction to onion

Onion belongs to the family Amaryllidaceae with botanical name Allium cepa. Onion is thought to be originated in Pakistan. It is now grown almost world wide North America, Japan, Spain, Netherland, Canada, India, Pakistan being major growers. Total area of onion crops in the world under cultivation is considered to be about 20,00,000 hectare which gives about 3,00,00,000 metric tonnes of produce.

Suitable climate for onion growing.

It is grown under a wide range of climatic conditions. However, it cannot stand too hot or too cold weather. It prefers moderate temperature in summer as well as in winter. Short days are not favorable for the formation of bulbs.

Soil requirements

Onion can grow in all sorts of soils, but sandy loam and clay-loam soils are best for its cultivation. An ideal soil should have pH in between 6.5 to 8. The soil should be well aerated. Heavy soil should be avoided.

FYM (Farm Yard Manure) or compost should be incorporated during land preparation. Lay out should ensure that Soil has good internal drainage.

Salinity effect on onion yield

Salinity Effect on Onion Yield
Salinity as E.C. valuePercentage Decrease in yield
1 -1.2 ds/m0%
1.8 ds/m10%
2.8 ds/m25%
4 ds/m50%

Therefore there is need to keep a check on the salinity of the soil. For further reading I suggest a read of my blog.

Methods of growing Onions

Onion is normally grown in two steps:

  1. Preparing seedlings from onion seeds in nurseries
  2. By planting seedlings in the field

Seedlings

The onion seeds are prepared for growing by first treating it with Trichoderma viride or Thiram for fungal resistance. After drying the seeds are sown in raised nursery beds which have been given proper dosage of farm yard manure and NPK in proportion (discussed in this article further). The beds have also been fumigated (also drenched with Bavistin) and all and any grass has been removed beforehand. Approximately 9-10 kg of seeds is sufficient for one hectare planting. The seeds are normally sown in the months of September/October. The onion seedlings are ready by January.

Planting

Land is prepared by ploughing 3 or 4 times (or as required). The earth should not have any lumps or boulders. It should be well aerated. The onion roots penetrate earth at shallow depths may be around 6-7 cms.

Fertilizer application actually depends upon the soil of the farmer. It is recommended to have the soil and water analyzed before deciding on the actual quantity of fertilizers. As a normal practice the following fertilizers are indicated for onion farming.

Farmyard manure around 250 kg per hectare. Add following as top dressing.

  1. 100-125 kg N/hectare
  2. 50-80 kg P/hectare
  3. 50-100 kg K/hectare

As per standard practice, Nitrogen fertilizers are given in two split dosage – one right in the beginning and the other after about 30 days.

The farmer may after studying his soil report also provide micro nutrients if indicated. Normally this is not required.

Planting is done at distances of 10 x 10 cm on flat surface. Sufficient watering is required for onions so that plants do not have water distress. Over watering however is detrimental for the onion plants. Watering is stopped when plants mature and start falling.

Weed control in Onion Farming   

Weed control needs to be an important cultural operation. Weeding, thinning and earthing up are the important intercultural operations of Onion farming.

Shallow rooted inter-row cultivation and hand weeding may be used to minimize weeds in the inter row zone.

Control of Pests and Diseases in Onion Farming  

Some information on insects, pests and disease of Onion is discussed below. The control measures depend upon type and intensity of the problems and also whether organic or inorganic pesticides are to be used as decided by the Farmer. For more information on pests and diseases please go through my blog on same.

  • Downey Mildew: spraying Dithane M-45 at interval is recommended.
  • Green Jassids: spray of chloropyrofos/ dichlorvos/dimethoate/phorate/imidacloprid
  • Shoot and Fruit Borer: spray endosulfan/chloropyrofos. Spread phorate.
  • White Fly: spray malathion. Drench with thimet.
  • Thrips: spray imidaclorprid/chloropyrosdimethoate. Several sprays may be required.

Some supposed Health Benefits of Onion

This vegetable has a long history in traditional medicine. It has nutrients, vitamins, minerals and other organic compounds which gives onions a special medicinal value.

The nutritional value of 100g of edible Onion is said to be equivalent to 1 g protein, 0.1 g fat, 9 g carbohydrate, 0.15 g minerals and 1.2 g fibers. It contains vitamin B-6, vitamin C, iron and calcium. It’s low in calories and has a high dietary fiber content.

It is good in lowering of blood sugar levels !

Onion has been suggested to help manage blood sugar due to presence of sulfur compounds (S-methylcycsteine) and quercetin. These compounds have a beneficial effect in controlling the blood sugar level in the body.

Quercetin in red onions have significant role in destroying breast and colon cancer cells.

The same compound also prevents release of histamine in body. This helps in allergies.

Some other Benefits are thought to be in help in asthma and allergic rhinitis by using onion extracts.  The use of onion is also good for eyes, oral healthcare and hair healthcare.

Risks of eating ONION

Like with everything which has good properties, Onion may also have some side effects. It is true that only a few studies Onion have linked to negative side effects.

Over consumption of onions for diabetic patients can be harmful.

It goes without saying that Onion can contain bacteria, pesticides, and other dangerous substances if it is not thoroughly washed.

Harvesting of Onions

onion ready for harvest

onion ready for harvest

Onions are harvested after the foliage dies down and the outer layers of onion bulbs are dry and peeling off. The harvested onions are dried, graded and ready for market or for storage.

note: The author himself is a small farmer and involved with such farming. Certain data are taken from usually reliable sources on the net.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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OKRA Farming

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Okra farming

OKRA farming and uses

Okra farming

Okra farming

Some introduction to Okra

Okra or okro, known in many English-speaking countries as Ladies’ Fingers or ochro, is a flowering plant in the mallow family. In India it is called bhendi. It is valued for its edible green seed pods. Wikipedia

Scientifically  named Abelmoschus esculentus, okra may have been grown as long ago as 2000 BCE in Egypt.

Okra belongs to the same family of plants as hibiscus, cocoa and cotton.

This plant welcomes temperate climates, producing large hibiscus-like flowers that eventually give rise to green seed pods. Okra is by nature a perennial plant; but mostly cultivated as annual plant. It grows quite tall as much as 2 meters.

Cooking

Okra fruit or pod can be eaten raw since It has a mild flavor. It can also be steamed, cooked, or fried. Okra pods can  also be used in soups and stews where due to the gooey mucilage it adds to soups.

Conventionally okra pods are pre-cooked  at very high heat by sautéing, roasting, blanching or grilling. Then add cooked okra to your recipe. This is done so that the naturally occurring slime in okra pods is finished. One can also reduce slime of okra pods by first soaking in vinegar or lime juice for about half an hour before cooking.

Suitable climate for Okra growing.

Okra is grown throughout the tropical and sub-tropical regions and also in the warmer parts of the temperate regions. Ladies finger requires long warm growing season during its growing period.

Okra gives good yield in warm humid condition.  A temperature range of 22-35°C is very good for its growth.. It can be successfully grown in rainy season even in heavy rainfall area.

Soil requirements

Okra can grow in all sorts of soils, but sandy loam and clay-loam soils are best for its cultivation.

The optimum pH range is between 6 and 6.8. Soils with high organic matter are preferred, FYM (Farm Yard Manure) or compost should be incorporated during land preparation. Lay out should ensure that Soil has good internal drainage.

In order to maximize the yield about 30 t of FYM (Field Yard Manure), 180 kg Super phosphate, 100 kg Murate of Potash and 200 kg Ammonium sulphate should be applied in the rows before sowing for one hectare of land. Nitrogen should be applied through fertigation in three split doses. The recommendation of fertilizers may be reviewed keeping in view the particular place soil and water analysis for pH, E.C. and minerals composition.

Preparation for sowing

Before sowing the seeds are soaked in a solution of Bavistin (0.2%) for 6 hours. The seeds are then dried in shade and sown in the prepared beds. The beds could be ridge and furrows type or flat beds depending on land.

Weed control in Ladies Finger Farming   

As Okra is harvested over a long period, weed control needs to be an important cultural operation. Weeding, thinning and earthling up is the important intercultural operations of Okra farming.

Farmers may make use of available herbicides for controlling weeds in okra as these are very effective in weed control.

Shallow rooted inter-row cultivation and hand weeding may be used to minimize weeds in the inter row zone. Black plastic mulch may be used to suppress weed growth. The black plastic mulch also keeps the soil warm and encourages plant growth.

Pests and Diseases in Ladies Finger Farming  

Some information on insects, pests and disease of Okra is discussed below. The control measures depend upon type and intensity of the problems and also whether organic or inorganic pesticides are to be used as decided by the Farmer.

  • Powdery Mildew: A grayish powdery growth appears, both on the upper and lower surface of leaves causing severe reduction in yields.
  • Green Jassids:The nymphs and adults suck the cell sap from leaves resulting to yellowing of leaves.
  • Shoot and Fruit Borer: Initially larvae bore into tender shoots and make tunnel downwards. The affected shoots wither, droop and ultimately destroyed. Side shoots arise giving plant a bushy appearance. The borer also bores into buds, flowers and fruits.
  • White Fly:Nymphs and adults suck the cell sap from leaves. White fly also spreads yellow vein mosaic virus disease due to which young leaves turn yellow resulting in stunted growth and reduced flowering and fruiting.
  • Red Spider Mites:Nymphs and adults suck the cell sap from underside of the leaves resulting in yellow white spots. Leaves gradually curl, get wrinkled and crumple.
  • Root-Knot Nematodes:The knots damage the roots and affected roots turn into knots like structures. Plants become yellowish, remain stunted and wilt permanently.

Some supposed Benefits of Okra

This vegetable-like fruit also has a long history in traditional medicine. Kew Royal Botanic Gardens report that in Eastern traditional medicine, okra leaves and fruit were used as pain relievers, moisturizers, and to treat urinary disorders. In Congolese medicine, okra is used to encourage a safe delivery during childbirth.

The nutritional value of 100g of edible okra is characterized 1.9 g protein, 0.2 g fat, 6.4 g carbohydrate, 0.7 g minerals and 1.2 g fibers. It contains potassium, vitamin B, vitamin C, folic acid, and calcium. It’s low in calories and has a high dietary fiber content.

It is good in controlling diabetes !

Recently, a new benefit of including okra in your diet is being considered. Okra has been suggested to help manage blood sugar in cases of type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.

A 2005 study published in Planta Medica investigated the effects of okra on rats with diabetes. A substance called myricetin is present in okra and some other foods, including red wine and tea. Researchers isolated myricetin from okra, then administered it to the rat. The treatment increased absorption of sugar in the rats’ muscles, lowering their blood sugar.

A 2012 Food Science and Human Wellness review points to a number of other laboratory and animal studies that have linked myricetin to lower blood sugar. The study argues that myricetin may also reduce other risk factors for diabetes..

Some other Benefits are thought to be like preventing and improving constipation, lowering cholesterol, reducing the risk of some forms of cancer, especially colorectal cancer,  improving energy levels and improving symptoms of depression, helping to treat sore throat, irritable bowel, ulcers and lung inflammation.

Risks of eating OKRA

Like with every thing which has good properties, Okra may also have some side effects. It is true that only a few studies have linked okra to negative side effects.

Okra may make the drug metformin, a diabetes drus, less effective.  Okra is high in substances known as oxalates. Oxalates may increase the risk of kidney stones in people vulnerable to kidney stones.

It goes without saying that Okra can contain bacteria, pesticides, and other dangerous substances if it is not thoroughly washed.

Harvesting of Ladies Finger or Okra or Bhendi   

Flowering in okra plants begins from 35 to 40 days after sowing. It is advisable to harvest the crop in 55 to 65 days after planting when pods are 2 to 3 inches long. At this stage the pods are still tender. Larger okra pods will tend to be tough and fibrous.

Round-podded okra varieties remain tender at larger pod sizes and are good to use for slicing and freezing.

Since, Okra grows very fast, it should be harvested every two days. The pods should not be allowed to mature on the plant because this will inhibit more pods from developing and reduce the productivity of the plant.

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Crops and Vegetables Sowing Planting Calendar

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INDICATIVE SOWING/PLANTING CALENDAR

FOR SOME CROPS AND VEGETABLES

Sowing and Planting Decision

Sowing and Planting decision is the most essential activity by a farmer. This activity comprises of following, amongst others:

  • assessment of the market requirements,
  • assessment of the expected favorable weather conditions,
  • suitability of a particular variety of the crop or the vegetable being planned for growing.

Recommending or deciding on a particular date for sowing and planting is difficult (see below a discussion on sowing and planting). The reasons are weather may not be suitable on that particular day; the seeds may not be available or the field itself may not be ready.

Indicative Period for Sowing and Planting

Given below is an indicative period when sowing and planting activities would be beneficial; there could be differences due to difference in weather from place to place. This is mostly for farmers who do outdoor farming.

For crops like onion, rice, tomato farmers would first prepare a seedbed and then grow seedlings. These seedlings would be planted in prepared field at proper stage of development. I propose to discuss this aspect in another of my blog.

Time slots for planting/sowing for crops like rice, wheat, maize etc is put in one table.

Time slots for planting/sowing of vegetables is put in the second table.

The time slots are only indicative in nature. Depending on the geographical locale, there would be differences.  Farmers also need to keep an eye on the likely market requirement and the weather forecasts. Arranging for proper seeds and seedlings from good known sources well in time is another effort to be made.

Below are the two tables.

Indicative Sowing/Plantation Times for some CROPS

CropSowing timeTransplantation

Time

How much seed kg/ha
Wheat2 – 3 week Nov;120-130
Wheat1st week Dec130 – 140
Rice PaddyJune to JulyJuly to Aug30- 40
MaizeNormal Mid June to mid July; in early rain areas sowing could be earlier.20 – 25
MustardOctober5
Sesame (Til)October5
Ground nutJune to July70 – 75
SoybeanJune to July (Mid)70 75

 

Indicative Sowing/Plantation Times for Some Vegetables

Vegetable NameTime of Planting
Brinjal, Tomato, Okra, Bean, Carrot, GourdsJanuary
Gourds, Bean, Okra, SpinachFebruary
Coriandar, Spinach, Okra, Bean, GourdsMarch
Capsicum, Onion, Tomato, ChillyApril
Onion, Pepper, OkraMay
Gourds, Brinjal, Cucumber, Okra, Onion, TomatoJune
same as aboveJuly
Carrot, Cauliflower, RadishAugust
Cauliflower, Cabbage, Peas, Radish, LettuceSeptember
Capsicum, Cucumber, Peas, Spinach, Lettuce, Brinjal, RadishOctober
Eggplant, Tomato, Radish, Pepper, Beans, Lettuce, OkraNovember
Tomato, Pumpkin, Watermelon, GourdsDecember

Note on difference between Sowing and Planting.

Sowing activity means that one would put seeds, after due pre-processing, into the earth soil. The seeds would germinate where ever they are sown.

Planting activity means that one puts small plants into the soil. The soil is already prepared for the plants. The plants themselves could be raised by farmer himself in carefully prepared seed beds. The farmer could alternatively purchase the plants from nurseries.

Interested Farmers may also consult NHB and F&AO

 

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Polyhouse Saline Soil – prevention and cure

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Polyhouse Saline Soil – prevention and cure

Many polyhouse/greenhouse growers see Saline soil problem. White grayish powder deposit on the sides of the beds and even on top of the soil is usual first visual manifestation of this. Indication of Saline Soil are also seen as falling production, stunting and die back of plants.

Definition of Saline Soil

There are many ways to define what is Saline Soil. One can define soil as saline when whitish crust is seen on top of the beds. One can also define it as when plants are not growing as expected and yield is down. A quantitative way to describe a soil as Saline Soil is when its E.C. is 4 ds/m or more. Some tests make it as 2 ds/m. The E.C. is measured by saturation soil extract method.

What make soils as Saline Soil

Soils become saline due principally to the irrigation water used and the fertigation methods. Different sources of irrigation water have different salinity as measured by T.D.S. or E.C. Most farmers using well water would have higher T.D.S. or E.C. and over time this would contribute to soils becoming saline.

The reason for Saline Soil is the accumulation of increased levels of nutrients and naturally occurring salts in irrigation water. All of these are not accumulated by the crop. The amount left over gets deposited in the soil beds. Growers rotate the same crop over a long period of time. Over years fertigation leaves sulfates and chlorides of sodium, calcium and magnesium. Over fertilization is the direct cause for saline soil.

Mechanism of Saline Soil

Fertigation followed with watering tends to make deposition of salts in layers. Salt accumulation makes it difficult for the plants to absorb moisture in beds. Generally near the top of the soil due to leeching of water, there would be less Saline soil. As the depth increases the Soil becomes more Saline. This is due to the fact that water in enough quantity does not leech through to deeper depths. Saline soil becomes compacted towards depth and this also prevents water leeching.  Deeper salts travel to  top and sides of beds due to capillary action, and are seen as white crust.

unabsorbed salts travel upwards due t capillary action

unabsorbed salts travel upwards due t capillary action

Measure Saline Soil E.C.

The preferred method is to have saturation soil extract. Mix soil sample in just sufficient water to get saturated paste. This method mimics the condition of soil at actual root zone of the crop. This takes some experience and time. Therefore some persons would take 1:1 or 1:2 ratio samples and try to extrapolate. However recommend saturation paste method.

Prevention of Saline Soil

The only way farmers can prevent is following two rules:

  1. Run enough irrigation water after every fertigation so as to cleans fully the drip lines as also to give enough water to leech salts to root zone and below.
  2. Give fertigation at levels just sufficient for vigorous growth of plants and fruits/flowers. Stay away from giving excess quantities to get more than optimum production.

Cure for Saline Soil

There are two ways to go for curing saline soil.

  1.  Allow land to lie fallow and open to rain water. Or give excess irrigation water plus R.O. water.
  2. Adopt inter crop. Certain crops can assimilate water even when saline soils. Wheat, Barley, Mustard, Cotton, Spinach, Potatoes, Onion, cucumber, Tomatoes are some such crops.

More readings:

1. F&AO article on the subject

2. Wikipedia article

 Would you, reader, like to share your experience with all of us? It would be knowledge gained.

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