Method Demonstration on Natural Farming by KVK, Wyra on 02.08.2024 at Kurnavalli

Natural farming can be defined as chemical- free farming and livestock based on agroecology. It is a diversified farming system that integrates crops, trees and livestock allowing the optimum use of functional biodiversity. It helps in regenerative agriculture that lend support to soil rejuvenation. Natural farming is related to fertility farming, organic farming, sustainable agriculture, agroecology, agroforestry, eco-agriculture and permaculture. Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Wyra organised method demonstrations on 02.08.2024 regarding “Natural farming” at Kurnavalli (V), Thallada (M) for preparation of biofertilisers. The programme was attended by scientists, Dr. Jessie Suneetha, W, Dr. V. Chaitanya and Mrs. P. S. M. Phanisri along with Department officials and local farmers. The farmers were sensitized on need for natural farming and sustainable agricultural practice that relied on natural inputs and processes to improve soil health, crop yields and farmer livelihoods was discussed at length. Trichoderma and pseudomonas are organic biological agents used to control plant diseases. The farmers were demonstrated on mixing of vermicompost with Trichoderma and pseudomonas as it has maximal indicators of growth-stimulating activity and the highest level of fungistatic properties towards root rot pathogens. It improves soil health and plant growth when added with this mixture. The sole application of Trichoderma or as foliar fertilizer led to inferior vegetative growth compared to its combined application. Also, the mixture was sprinkled with jaggery solution to increase the formation of fungus in vermicompost. Oil cakes are an excellent biofertilizer with antibacterial properties and help in sustainable farming by slowly releasing essential macro and micro nutrients for the plants. Liquid biofertilizers are an alternative to carrier-based formulations that are also called flowable or aqueous suspension. These typically consist of 10–40% microbes, 1–3% suspender ingredient, 1–5% dispersant, 3–8% surfactant and 35–65% carrier liquid (water or oil). The participants were shown preparation of liquid biofertilizer with oil cakes.