Description
The study evaluates the impact of different organic matter sources and microbial inoculants on crop yields in both wet and dry seasons. It used a randomized complete block design with 48 plots (4x4m each) to test combinations of organic matter sources (weeds, green manure, compost) and microbial inoculants (EM, cattle manure slurry, vermiwash) Maize was grown in the wet season and capsicum in the dry season. The research compares yields across different treatment combinations to assess the effectiveness of Nature Farming practices.
Findings
Organic matter application and microbial inoculation significantly increased crop yields compared to the control, with the most pronounced effects in the dry season.
Compost and green manure showed the highest yield improvements, but even weed incorporation provided significant yield increases over bare soil.
EM consistently outperformed other microbial inoculants in enhancing crop yields, demonstrating its potential as a cost-effective input for Nature Farming systems.
Stats
Maize yields increased from 185 g/m2 in the control to up to 278 g/m2 with the best treatment combination.
Capsicum yields improved from 654 g/m2 in the control to up to 811 g/m2 with optimal treatments.
The combination of compost and EM showed the highest yield increases, with 50% and 24% improvements for maize and capsicum respectively compared to the control.