Back U. R. Sangakkara, B. Marambe, A. M. U. Attanayake and E. R. Piyadasa
University of Peradeniya, Department of Crop Science, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
Full Paper (PDF File: 215KB)
Abstract
The use of Effective Microorganisms (EM) in Kyusei Nature Farming enhances
crop yields in conventional organic systems. However, the causal factors
of this phenomenon have not been well-documented, although some reports
indicate the improvement in soil properties. Thus, a study was conducted
to evaluate the nutrient utilization efficiency of two food crops grown
over three seasons under conventional organic and Kyusei Nature Farming
methods. The organic amendments used were coir dust, rice straw and leaves
from the legume Gliricidia sepium, with or without EM. Yields of all crops
were enhanced with the organic amendments and to a greater extent with
EM. Plant nutrient concentrations (N and K) which are important for vegetative
and reproductive growth, were greater in plants grown with EM. The utilization
efficiencies of the nutrients applied with organic matter were also greater.
The results are discussed in terms of the accrued benefits to food crops
with the use of EM in conventional organic systems adopted in the tropics.