In a notable turn for sustainable farming practices, recent research highlights the potential of Jeevamrit, a traditional biofertilizer derived from desi-cow waste, in enhancing marigold cultivation. Conducted by Nitesh Kaushal and his team from the Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture at Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, this study sheds light on how integrating organic methods can not only boost flower yields but also promote healthier soil ecosystems.
The study meticulously compared Jeevamrit with conventional chemical fertilizers and growth regulators, focusing on marigold cv. Siracole. The findings revealed that plants treated with Jeevamrit demonstrated superior growth characteristics, including a remarkable rooting percentage of 77.62% and a survival rate of 81.59%. “What we found was that using Jeevamrit not only improved the health of the plants but also enriched the soil’s microbial population,” Kaushal noted. The research indicates that this biofertilizer fosters a thriving community of bacteria and fungi, which are crucial for nutrient cycling and overall soil vitality.
Interestingly, while Jeevamrit showed promising results, the study also pointed out that the combination of benzyl adenine with a balanced N-P-K fertilizer yielded the highest cutting output. This nuanced insight is particularly valuable for commercial growers looking to maximize their production. The highest cutting yield was recorded at an impressive 92.92 cuttings per plant, showcasing the potential for significant economic returns.
The research further delved into seasonal variations, with findings suggesting that the fourth harvesting flush yielded the most cuttings per plant, while the first flush excelled in rooting efficiency. This kind of detailed analysis can help farmers strategically plan their planting schedules, ensuring they tap into the most productive periods for marigold cultivation.
Moreover, under natural farming conditions, the study observed a notable increase in the number of marketable flowers produced, hinting at the benefits of organic practices over synthetic fertilizers. “Our results suggest that sustainable practices can lead to better yields and healthier crops, which is a win-win for both farmers and the environment,” Kaushal added.
As the agriculture sector increasingly shifts towards sustainability, this research published in ‘Heliyon’ (translated as ‘Helios’) could pave the way for more farmers to adopt biofertilizers like Jeevamrit. With the potential to reduce reliance on chemical inputs, this study not only champions eco-friendly practices but also highlights a path forward for floriculture that aligns with global sustainability goals. As farmers seek to balance productivity with environmental stewardship, insights from this research may very well shape the future landscape of agricultural practices, particularly in flower production.