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2.2 Method to incorporate Mulch into the soil
Mulch is any material placed on the soil surface to conserve
moisture, lower soil temperatures around plant roots, prevent
erosion and reduce weed growth. Mulches can be derived from
either organic or inorganic materials. Natural mulch consists of
dead leaves, twigs, fallen branches, cane trash and other plant
debris which accumulate in the farm. Bacteria, fungi and other
living organisms use these raw organic materials for food during
the process.
Spray Bhu-swanand solution on mulch after moistening it.
Soil can be spread over it but very lightly.
Application of Cow dung slurry is beneficial for microorganism
growth.
Benefits of mulch degradation
Organic mulches not only conserve
moisture, they also feed plants, earth worms, microbes and other
beneficial soil life by composting at the moist earth surface.
More species and tonnage of life occurs below than above the
soil surface. All soil life needs energy. They cannot collect
energy directly as green plants do, but feed on energy released
from decaying mulch which is their preferred food source.
. Organic matter decomposition near or on top of root zone
serves two important functions, namely supply of energy to the
biotic community and secondly, supply of carbon, which is the
single most important element of all living beings. .
Benefit of these methods:
Micro organisms mainly carry out composting. In this entire
process the quality of soil texture gets improved because of
enhanced microbial
activity.
Enzymes secreted by the bacteria during the compost process are
beneficial for root growth development.
Beneficial micro organisms suppress pathogens resulting in
control of diseases.
This process happens in the top soil, so heat generated is not
injurious to roots but beneficial for their development.
Transportation cost of fertilizer is practically minimised.
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