I Farmer Session 6 - Thumb Rules - English (2024-06-04 19_03 GMT+5_30) (copy)

Roots

A novel written by Alex Haley that traces back 7 generations of his ancestors.

Farming Practices

Describes the traditional method of farming where dry weeds are burned to nourish the soil with ashes.

Thumb Rules

Guidelines discussed to help implement work efficiently and collect necessary parameters for crops.

Gandhi's Naithal Education System

Recommends starting work first and then learning, contrary to the traditional approach of learning theory before practical work.

Multiple Demographic Audience

Refers to the diverse age groups and backgrounds of participants in the educational setting, drawing inspiration from Indian Gurukula and Montessori systems.

Hybrid Seeds

Seeds that are not season-specific and can be planted at any time, unlike native seeds which are more suitable for specific seasons.

Planting Cycle

The process of determining the right time and conditions for planting crops to ensure optimal growth and yield.

Minimum Configuration

Suggests starting with a 3 feet by 10 feet vegetable bed, providing ample space for planting several crops with minimal labor.

Seasonal Impact

Explains how planting crops at the right time can prevent issues like pest attacks and ensure proper growth and fruiting.

Starting the Experiment

Encourages beginning the planting process with available seeds and gradually learning about different varieties and planting cycles.

Soil Organic Matter

The organic matter present in soil, crucial for plant growth and soil health.

Moisture Level

The amount of water content in the soil, important for plant growth and development.

Raised Beds

Beds elevated above ground level for planting, aiding in better drainage and soil management.

Mulch

Material placed on the soil surface to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health.

Grow Bags

Containers used for planting, providing a portable and controlled environment for growing plants.

Wood Chips

Organic material used as mulch to cover soil and pathways, aiding in moisture retention and weed suppression.

Organic Matter

Organic matter refers to the decomposed plant and animal materials in the soil that provide essential nutrients for plant growth.

Volume Calculation

The process of determining the amount of space occupied by a bed or container, often crucial for proper nutrient application.

Soil Depth

The measurement of how deep the soil is, which influences the amount of organic matter and nutrients available to plants.

Soil Organic Matter

The organic materials present in the soil, such as compost, dry leaves, and manure, that contribute to soil fertility and plant health.

Soil Carbon

The carbon component of soil organic matter, with a recommended level of 3% or more for optimal plant growth.

Compost

Organic matter that has been decomposed and recycled as a fertilizer and soil amendment to improve soil structure and provide nutrients to plants.

Vermicompost

Compost produced by worms, rich in nutrients and beneficial microorganisms for plant growth.

Soil Density

The mass of soil per unit volume, influencing the volume-based application of organic materials over weight-based measurements.

Soil Fertility

The ability of soil to provide essential nutrients to plants for healthy growth and development.

Nutrient Application

The process of adding fertilizers or organic materials to the soil to ensure plants receive adequate nutrients for optimal growth.

Soil Organic Matter

Refers to the organic materials in the soil, such as compost, vermicompost, and compost tea, that provide essential nutrients for plant growth.

Compost

Decomposed organic matter that is rich in nutrients and used to improve soil fertility.

Ganajivamrit

A type of organic fertilizer made from cow dung, used to enhance soil fertility.

Thumb Rules

General guidelines or principles followed in agricultural practices for soil management and crop cultivation.

Soil Carbon

Carbon stored in the soil through the decomposition of organic matter, contributing to soil fertility and plant growth.

Raised Bed Concept

Elevating the soil to prevent waterlogging and promote proper drainage.

Capillary Action

The process where water is drawn up from below the soil to feed the roots.

Wind Flow

The movement of air between raised beds that can benefit plant growth and pollination.

Tilling

The process of turning over soil to expose it to air and mix in compost.

Composting

The decomposition of organic matter to create nutrient-rich soil for plants.

Sustainable Farming

Practices that aim to maintain or improve the health of the soil and environment for long-term productivity.

Compost

Organic matter that has been decomposed and recycled as a fertilizer and soil amendment.

Mulch

Material spread over the surface of soil to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health.

Soil compaction

The process by which soil particles are pressed together, reducing pore space and limiting root growth and water infiltration.

Soil texture

The relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay in soil, influencing its drainage, aeration, and nutrient-holding capacity.

Soil organic matter

Decaying plant and animal materials in soil that contribute to soil fertility and structure.

Soil carbon

Carbon stored in soil through organic matter decomposition, influencing soil health and climate change mitigation.

Raised beds

Gardening or farming beds elevated above ground level, providing better drainage, soil aeration, and root growth.

Soil moisture level

The amount of water present in soil, crucial for microbial activity, plant growth, and soil health.

Compost

Decomposed organic matter used to enrich soil with nutrients.

Carbon Nitrogen Ratio

The ratio of carbon to nitrogen in compost, ideally around 30:1 to 35:1 for optimal microbial activity.

Vermicompost

Compost produced by worms breaking down organic matter.

Raised Bed

A gardening bed raised above the ground level for planting.

Soil Enrichment

The process of improving soil quality by adding nutrients and organic matter.

Live Mulch

Using living plants as a mulch to cover the soil surface.

Sunlight Protection

Shielding the soil from direct sunlight to maintain soil temperature and moisture levels.

Straw

Agricultural residue left after harvesting grains like rice or wheat.

Shredder

Equipment used to cut straw or other materials into smaller pieces.

EM (Effective Microorganisms)

A mixture of beneficial microorganisms used in agriculture to improve soil health.

Carbon Nitrogen Ratio

The ratio of carbon to nitrogen in compost, important for decomposition and nutrient balance.

Vermicompost

Compost produced by worms, rich in nutrients and beneficial microorganisms.

Cow Dung

Animal manure commonly used in composting for its nutrient content.