Burying wheat straw in fields boosts maize yield by 30%:In Malwa, banana plants brought from Gujarat underwent 3 years of research; now flourishing

Where a farmer nurtures the soil, the strength of new crops is born. Inspired by this thought, farmer Nandlal Dhakad from Nahargadh in Mandsaur district has given a fresh direction to organic farming through innovative techniques. After harvesting wheat, instead of destroying the leftover straw in the field, he started burying it in the soil using a special method. Boosting soil moisture and nutrients This approach has increased both moisture and nutrients in the soil, improving the production of subsequent crops. The technique not only reduces cultivation costs but also maintains soil fertility for a long time. Farmer Nandlal explains that burying wheat straw is an effective way to enhance soil fertility and control weeds, especially when combined with a bio-decomposer. This method improves the physical and chemical properties of the soil, increases nutrient availability, and promotes healthy soil microorganisms. It also reduces dependence on chemical fertilisers. The straw is mixed into the soil either through deep ploughing or by finely cutting it, allowing it to decompose and act as natural manure. He has already seen significant benefits from this method. Corn production rises by 30 per cent In previous years, corn production, despite higher initial costs, yielded only 10 quintals per bigha. After applying this new organic method, production has increased by 30 percent, reaching 13 to 14 quintals per bigha. The use of chemical fertilisers and medicines has also reduced thanks to organic practices. Farmer Nandlal says, “Now I only use fertiliser when absolutely necessary. Compared to before, chemical fertiliser usage has dropped by up to 80 percent.” Three years of research and experimentation He adds that after three years of continuous research, he also began planting a banana garden. He brought plants from Gujarat and experimented with different fertiliser and medicine management techniques by planting various crops in a small garden. After successfully harvesting them, he expanded the plantation to hundreds of banana plants. Bananas take twelve months to grow, so the first crop is expected by June. While banana cultivation is not widely seen in Malwa, this experiment has shown success. Alongside bananas, preparations are underway to cultivate mango, tomato, and chili crops as well.