Rice Straw Management -- Effective Solutions for Soil Fertility and Environmental Protection

 

Rice Straw Management -- Effective Solutions for Soil Fertility and Environmental Protection

Rice straw management is a major challenge for Indian farmers. Every year, millions of tons of rice straw remain in the fields after harvesting. Burning it is not only harmful to the environment but also negatively impacts soil fertility and human health. But did you know that instead of burning it, it can be improved by incorporating it into the soil? In this article, we will explain why straw doesn't decompose easily, its disadvantages, and simple and effective methods for incorporating it into the soil.

 

Why Doesn't Straw Decompose Easily?

Incorporating rice straw into the soil is difficult. There are several scientific reasons behind this.

 

1. High Silica

Rice straw contains a high silica content, which makes it hard. Silica makes it difficult for microorganisms to break down the straw.

 

2. High Carbon-Nitrogen Ratio (C:N Ratio)

The carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (C:N Ratio) in stubble is over 60:1. Generally, microorganisms require a ratio of 20:1 to 30:1 to decompose stubble. This high ratio slows down stubble decomposition.

 

3. Nitrogen Deficiency

Stubble contains very little nitrogen. When it is mulched into the soil, microorganisms draw nitrogen from the soil, leading to a nitrogen deficiency. This deficiency causes yellowing (nitrogen deficiency) in the next crop, which affects crop growth.

 

For these reasons, burning stubble seems like an easy option for many farmers. However, burning stubble causes serious problems such as air pollution, soil fertility loss, and carbon emissions. So, let's explore what can be done to mulch stubble instead of burning it.

 

Effective Stubble Management Solutions

 

Mixing stubble into the soil is not only beneficial for the environment but also improves soil fertility. Below are some effective and easy solutions:

 

1. Mix stubble with a nitrogen source

 When incorporating stubble into the soil, it is important to address nitrogen deficiencies.

 - Use of urea - Spray 20-25 kg of urea per acre. This provides the necessary nitrogen for microorganisms to decompose the stubble.

 - This prevents nitrogen deficiency in the soil and can prevent chlorosis in the next crop.

 - After evenly sprinkling urea, lightly water the field to maintain moisture.

 

Benefits - This method is inexpensive and easy. It increases the organic matter in the soil and improves crop yields.

 

2. Use of biodecomposers

 Biodecomposers are a biological solution that helps decompose stubble quickly.

 PUSA Decomposer is an effective fungi-based product developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR-IARI).

 

To use it:

1. Mix a capsule of PUSA Decomposer in a solution of jaggery and gram flour and let it sit for 4-5 days.

 2. Spray this solution on the stubble and keep the field slightly moist.

 3. The stubble will soften and decompose within 25-30 days.

 - Other biodecomposers are also available in the market that can be used.

 

Benefits: It is environmentally friendly and cost-effective. It increases the number of microorganisms in the soil, improving soil health.

 

3. Use of Green Manure

Using green manure crops is very effective in stubble management.

 - Sow green manure crops like Sanai or Dhaincha.

 - Mixing these crops with the stubble in the soil helps compensate for nitrogen deficiency.

 - Green manure crops increase the amount of organic matter and nitrogen in the soil, which accelerates the decomposition of stubble.

 

Benefits: It increases soil fertility in the long term and reduces dependence on chemical fertilizers.

 

4. Proper Water Management

Moisture in the soil is essential for the decomposition of stubble.

 - Lightly water the field after mixing the stubble in the soil.

 - Microorganisms cannot become active in dry soil, which slows down decomposition.

 - Lightly irrigate the field from time to time to maintain moisture.

Benefits - It accelerates the decomposition of stubble and improves soil structure.

 

Disadvantages of Stubble Burning

 

Many farmers find it easier to burn stubble, but it has several disadvantages:

 

1. Air pollution - Burning stubble releases harmful gases such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter (PM2.5), which are harmful to health.

 2. Decreased soil fertility - Burning destroys beneficial soil microorganisms and depletes organic matter.

 3. Health problems - Smoke can cause respiratory illnesses, eye irritation, and other health problems.

 4. Legal restrictions - Burning stubble is illegal in many states in India and can result in fines.

 

Long-term benefits of stubble management
 

1. Increased soil fertility - Incorporating stubble into the soil increases the amount of organic carbon, which makes the soil fertile.

2. Reduced dependence on chemical fertilizers – Stubble decomposition supplies nutrients to the soil.

 3. Environmental protection – Stubble burning prevents pollution.

 4. Sustainable farming – It makes farming sustainable in the long run.

 

Suggestions for farmers

Raise awareness – Tell farmers around you about the disadvantages of stubble burning and the benefits of managing it.

 Use of modern machinery – Machines like the Happy Seeder, Rotavator, and Straw Chopper help incorporate the stubble into the soil.

 Take advantage of government schemes – The Government of India and state governments provide subsidies and technical assistance for stubble management.