Carbon Farming: A Promising Approach to Climate Mitigation and Adaptation in India

This article addresses India's role in the reduction of GHG emissions, the impact of renewable energy and the application of solar energy. In response to the climatic challenges, India is meticulously stepping towards offsetting or the onset of carbon farming such as organic cultivation and solar energy interventions. Offset carbon farming area of 5. 387 Mha organic farming could sequester carbon annually of 6.567 mt, simultaneously; it has the advantage of reducing synthetic nitrogen fertilizer application doses ranging from a minimum of 0.27 mt and a maximum of 1.08 mt per hectare. Furthermore, solar energy can indirectly be used as SWH suitable for average family households contributing carbon credits of 771 kg-824 kg in addition to saving an annual electricity burden of around 1365 kWh to 1459 kWh and directly utilized for solar PV electricity generation of 1 MW will offset approximately 730 tons of CO2 emissions, which is equivalent to 33, 183 carbon-absorbing trees (22 kg of CO2 absorbed/ tree/year). Carbon farming has challenges encompassing economic, technological, policy, and knowledge-based barriers that require innovative solutions and concerted stakeholder efforts.

Ecological and Economic Security through Organic Vegetable Cultivation in the Raised Bed Model: A Case Study of Akshayakalpa Organics in Tiptur, India

This paper explores the potential role of organic vegetable production technologies in ensuring ecological and economical security for farmers. In the current scenario, the survival of farmers, especially small and marginal farmers is challenged by several problems such as low land holding, decreased subsidies for inputs, high labor cost, high input cost, less market rate, increased cost of living and increased awareness about health benefits of organic vegetable consumption among economically middle and high strata of society leads to more demand for organic vegetables. Under these conditions, diversification of the cropping system with high-value crops like vegetables can be the best option for the farmers. In this context, modern technologies and practices are needed for higher and more sustainable production and productivity of vegetables and to maintain a good ecology in the farm. The raised bed is one of the technologies in which beds are raised with a stone border and this model has several advantages for small and marginal farmers. The vegetables are grown organically in one acre of area. The average yield per month is 903.69 KG, the average gross revenue generated per month is Rs.53,783.25/- and average total expenditure per month is Rs. 21,584.35. The Average Air temperature for three months within the farm, outside of the farm (open area) and outside of the farm (shade area) is 27.49°C, 29.22°C and 28.54°C respectively. The Average soil temperature for three months within the farm, outside the farm (open area) and outside the farm (shade area) is 23.48°C, 25.54°C and 24.20°C respectively. The Average Relative Humidity for three months within the farm, outside the farm (open area) and outside the farm (shade area) is 60.42 %, 52.38 % and 54.15 % respectively. Due to buffer zone microclimate has been created inside the farm. The temperature and RH difference can be noticed within and outside of the farm. This system requires a smaller amount of labor and less water when compared to conventional farming. With all its advantages the farmer can be assured of economic and ecological security.

Effect of Organic Manures and Biofertilizers on NPK Content of Kasuri Methi (Trigonella corniculata L.) CV. – Pusa Kasuri

The study was carried out at the Research field, Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Gwalior M.P. during rabi 2021-22. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the plant in terms of various parameters such as nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium content in herb and grain. The results of the study indicated that the application of organic manures and bio fertilizers improved the nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium content in herb and grain. The highest nitrogen (1.53% and 3.35%), phosphorous (0.43% and 0.56%) and potassium (0.46% and 0.57%) were observed in the plants treated with FYM (16 t/ha) + Vermicompost (4 t/ha) + Rhizobium (10 ml/kg seed) + PSB (10 ml/kg seed) + KSB (10 ml/kg seed) as compared with control.

A Study on Knowledge Level and Attitude of Farmers towards Organic Farming in Ananthapuramu District, Andhra Pradesh, India

Organic farming is practicing in 187 countries, and 72.3 million hectares of agricultural land were managed organically by at least 3.1 million farmers. India is home to 30% of total organic producers in the world having 2.30 million ha (NCOF, 2021). A study was conducted in ten mandals of Ananthapuramu district with sample size of 100 and farmers were selected randomly. Pearson correlation, frequency, percentage, mean were calculated. From the results it was noticed that farmers have more knowledge related to statements viz., organic farming is a type of farming system in which crops are grown without the use of chemical inputs (85%) and knowledge gap percentage was 15. Farmers have positive attitude on statement I can obtain optimum production level in organic farming if we rear livestock at our farm with score of 244 and attitude gap percentage of 20 followed by organic farming will decrease the production cost by reducing the input purchases score of 243 and attitude gap percentage of 19. Education, extension contact, information seeking behaviour and awareness about organic farming variables were positively significant and highly correlated with attitude of farmers towards organic cultivation. Major constraints faced by the farmers were lack of skill regarding the preparation and usage of organic inputs (80%) followed by complicated methods for production of organic inputs and absence of premium price for organic produce in the local market (71%). Major suggestion were direct procurement of organic produce by government and supply to Midday Meals Scheme and Public Distribution System.

Farmer’s Awareness Level on Organic Agriculture in Varanasi District of Uttar Pradesh, India

The present study was conducted in four blocks of Varanasi district (Uttar Pradesh). A total 332 respondents from 63 villages were selected by the researcher. The objective of the study was to know the awareness level of respondents towards the organic fertilizers, organic farming, sources of information regarding awareness, and duration of practicing organic agriculture. It was found that around 43.97 percent of the respondents were aware of the organic farming in the study area. However only four types of organic fertilizers Organic Manure, Vermicompost, City compost, and PROM, known to the respondent out of 10 fertilizers recommended under FCO 1985, amended in July 2021. Most of the respondents practiced organic farming within the last 6 to 8 years, concurrent with the government policies emphasizing organic farming. The most important source of information regarding awareness towards organic farming was Krishi Vigyan Kendra and NGOs in the study area.

An Analysis of Constraints Faced by Organic Farmers in the Cauvery Delta Zone of Tamil Nadu, India

Aim: This study examines the multifaceted challenges encountered by organic farmers operating within the Cauvery Delta Region of Tamil Nadu.Study Design: Ex-post facto research design was used to investigate and reveal the challenges that organic farmers have encountered over the preceding years.Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the Cauvery Delta Zone of Tamil Nadu. Five districts were selected for the study namely, Thanjavur, Thiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai and Tiruchirapalli. Respondents were interviewed during the period of June 2023 – July 2023.Methodology: The study aimed to include 40 organic farmers from each district, resulting in a collective sample size of 200 respondents across these districts, facilitated through snowball sampling technique. A well – structured interview schedule which included the major constraints faced by organic farmers of the CDZ was developed based on review of past literatures and discussion with experts in the area of organic farming. Based on the ranks given by the respondents to the constraints, the data was analyzed and conclusive results were obtained using the Rank Based Quotient (RBQ) technique. Constraints were studied in 7 different dimensions namely, labour, technical, service and supply, credit and economic, environmental, cropping and marketing constraints. Results: The prime constraints with a higher RBQ values identified in these dimensions were, Labour scarcity due to MGNREGA (93.13), Cumbersome (Slow and complicated) certification process (79.90), Lack of supportive institutions for organic farming (91.80), Inadequate subsidies for organic agriculture (92.75), Use of polluted river water for irrigation (93.90), Lack of inputs specifically for weed management (96.63), Challenge in finding proper marketing channel (90.38). In addition to this, some minor issues were also identified as constraints in the study area.Conclusion: Through an in-depth exploration of these challenges, the study aims to provide insights that can guide policy makers, practitioners, and stakeholders in devising strategies to overcome the obstacles faced by organic farmers in the Cauvery Delta Zone which could have a threshold effect in boosting up the organic productivity of the state.

Effect of Organic and Inorganic Nutrient Management on Productivity, Cost Economics and Energy Use Efficiency in Sesame

Field experiments were carried out to assess the soil physicochemical properties, yield, quality, energy use and profit analysis of sesame and under organic vis-à-vis conventional production systems for three consecutive seasons. The soil organic C, available N, P, K and micronutrients recorded a slight rise in the organic production system over three seasons. The mean total energy input expended in the production of sesame using organic inputs was much lower (3,586.9 MJ ha-1) compared to that with inorganic fertilizers (5,156.3 MJ ha-1). Manures/Fertilizers and diesel inputs dominated the total energy inputs for both the production systems. However, the energy output obtained was higher in the inorganic production system (12,000 MJ) than in organic production system (9,375 MJ). The cost of cultivation of sesame was Rs. 12807 ha-1 and Rs. 16413 ha-1 under inorganic and organic farming, respectively. Organic sesame yield was about 22 per cent less compared to inorganic production system. At least 40% price premium for organic sesame may be required to offset the higher cost of cultivation and low yields under organic production system compared with inorganic production system especially during initial years. Renewable energy input utilization was higher (66 %) in organic than in inorganic production systems (13%). Energy efficiency and productivity was higher in organic than inorganic sesame production system by 12 per cent and 10 per cent, respectively. Since, the organic production system is more energy efficient and it is recommended that sesame production under organic farming should be encouraged for environmental and economic sustainability.

Environmental Sustainability and Food Security of Traditional Agricultural Practices in India: A Review

This synthesis consolidates current research on sustainable agriculture and its pivotal role in enhancing food security, conserving biodiversity, and mitigating climate change. Sourced from a wide array of references, it accentuates exercises such as organic farming, agroforestry, and diversified farming systems as cornerstone approaches, sustainable agriculture. The potential of these practices is also explored, highlighting the carbon sequestration capacity of agroforestry systems, the environmental advantages of organic farming over conventional methods, and the implications of diversified farming systems on food security. However, sustainable agriculture still confronts numerous challenges, especially regarding the environmental repercussions of pesticide use and the barriers hindering the adoption of sustainable farming practices. The substantial role of traditional agricultural practices, which often reflect fundamentals of sustainability and resource preservation, is also underscored. The transformative impact of integrated aquaculture-agriculture systems on small-scale farms in Southern and Southeastern Asia is with Farmer Field School experiences worldwide. Critically, the synthesis acknowledges the daunting task of feeding a burgeoning global population and the environmental ramifications of land utilization. Synthesis concludes by asserting that future research and policy must perpetually focus on these issues, aiming to generate innovative strategies for sustainable agriculture and to bolster the resilience of farming systems in the face of climate change.

Assessment of Soil Properties Using Geospatial Techniques at DDUCE-OF Farm

The purpose of this study was to identify the geographic variability and mapping of different soil properties using geospatial techniques at DDUCE-OF Farm. For this purpose, surface soil samples (0-15 cm depth) were collected with the help of GPS at definite locations of research farm area at DDUCE-OF, CCSHAU, Hisar during rabi, 2021. These samples were analyzed in the laboratory for various physico-chemical and biological properties. Soil properties of DDUCE-OF farm revealed that soils are sandy loam to loam in texture having pH ranged from 7.15 to 8.65 and electrical conductivity (EC) ranged from 0.30 to 2.75 dS/m. The soil organic carbon (SOC) content was observed medium to high (0.41 to 0.94%).The available N was low (126 to 196 kg/ha), P ranged from 8.50 to 23.5 kg/ha (from low to high in content) and available K was found medium to high and ranged from 128.5 to 554.0 kg/ha. The available S ranged between 60 to 725 mg/kg and was observed sufficient. The soil microbiological bacterial count status ranged between 4.6x103-9.8x109 CFU count per g of soil in various blocks of organic farm. The DTPA-extractable micronutrients Zn (1.00-4.47 mg/kg), Fe (7.26-19.92 mg/kg), Mn (3.88-17.77 mg/kg) and Cu (0.93-4.64 mg/kg) were sufficient in amount and heavy metal contents (Ni, Pb, Cd, Cr, As) were found below their permissible limit. The study concluded that the soil mapping and survey is significant because it aids in the evaluation of soil qualities and their application in organic farming.

Growth and Present Status of Organic Farming in India and Global Level

Organic agriculture is growing rapidly as an alternative strategy to modern farming methods. India is home to 30% of total organic producers in the world having 2.30 million hectares. There has been a gradual increase in organic agricultural land in all the regions. According to the latest FIBL survey on organic agriculture worldwide, organic farming increases by 1.1 million hectares. Many countries are now focusing on organic farming because of healthy crops, fruits, vegetables that are produced purely by organic means, free from any harmful chemical fertilizers and pesticides and also eco- friendly. Organic farming is another way to overcome the problem of sustainability, global warming and food security.The present study attempts to analyse the Growth and Status of Organic Farming in India and Global level.

Organic onion growth, yield and storage improved by foliar sprays of microalgae and fulvic acid as a natural biofertilizer

The use of microalgae as natural biofertilizer in horticulture has recently been reported, while the use of humic substances is widespread. However, the combined use of microalgae with humic substances applied to plant leaves is still unexploited. Thus, the objective of this work was to combine fulvic acid (FA) with the Scenedesmus subspicatus microalga biomass (SC) as a natural biofertilizer applied via leaf in two onion cultivars in organic system. Four experiments were conducted: i) bioassays to verify the bioactive effect of FA, SC and combinations using the Vigna radiata model plant; ii) greenhouse pot experiment with foliar applications of FA, SC and combination in two onion cultivars; iii) field experiment in organic system with foliar applications of FA, SC and combination in two onion cultivars; and iv) onion bulb storage experiment. The bioactive effect of SC, FA and their combinations was identified by promoting changes in root growth of V. radiata. In pots, treatments containing FA, SC and combination promoted increase in fresh and dry leaf mass. The foliar application of FA, SC and combination promoted an increase in field bulb productivity, reduced mass loss in stored bulbs and increased carbohydrate, amino acid and protein contents in onion bulbs.

Conversion to organic farming: a dynamic opportunity for Pakistani smallholders of fresh fruit / Conversão para a agricultura orgânica: uma oportunidade dinâmica para pequenos produtores de frutas frescas do Paquistão

ABSTRACT: Exporting the organic fresh fruit (FF) to Europe and America could be regarded as great opportunity for smallholders and suppliers of Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. Yet, the global organic farmland and the number of organic producers are continued to grow. To date, little is known about the behavior of Pakistani farmers towards organic fresh fruit production. This study examined the factors that influence the decision-making of fresh fruit smallholders concerning the conversion to organic farming (COF). This study uses Ajzen's theory of planned behavior (TPB) to predict the behavior of Pakistani smallholders of fresh fruit. Path analysis examined the utility of the extended version of the TPB model to anticipate 277 small-scale farmers' behavioral intentions towards the adoption of organic farming (AOF) and their prospect of converting their farm to organic produce within the next three years. The present study reported that the smallholders' attitude (ATT), subjective norms (SN), perceived behavior control (PBC), and farmer's group participation (FGP) were positively correlated with farmer's intention to adopt organic farming, while group participation of farmers has significant correlation with their behavior regarding production of organic fruits. The present study justifies using the model of farmers' group participation in policies that deliberately cheer up smallholders of fresh fruit to adopt organic farming, to raise farm incomes and to alleviate poverty.

RESUMO: Exportar a fruta fresca orgânica (FF) para a Europa e América pode ser considerada uma grande oportunidade para pequenos proprietários e fornecedores de Gilgit Baltistan, Paquistão. No entanto, as terras agrícolas orgânicas globais e o número de produtores orgânicos continuam a crescer. Até o momento, pouco se sabe sobre o comportamento dos agricultores paquistaneses em relação à produção de frutas frescas orgânicas. O objetivo deste estudo, portanto, foi examinar e determinar os fatores que influenciam a tomada de decisão dos pequenos produtores de frutas frescas sobre a conversão para a agricultura orgânica (COF). Este estudo usa a teoria do comportamento planejado de Ajzen (TPB) para prever o comportamento dos pequenos produtores de frutas frescas do Paquistão. A análise de caminho examinou a utilidade da versão estendida do modelo TPB para antecipar as intenções comportamentais de 277 agricultores de pequena escala em relação à adoção da agricultura orgânica (AOF) e sua perspectiva de converter sua fazenda em produtos orgânicos nos próximos três anos. O presente estudo descobriu que a atitude dos pequenos proprietários (ATT), as normas subjetivas (SN), o controle do comportamento percebido (PBC) e a participação do grupo de agricultores (FGP) foram positivamente correlacionadas com a intenção do agricultor de adotar a agricultura orgânica, enquanto a participação do grupo de agricultores correlação significativa com seu comportamento em relação à produção de frutas orgânicas. O presente estudo justifica o uso do modelo de participação de grupos de agricultores em políticas que encorajam deliberadamente os pequenos produtores de frutas frescas a adotar a agricultura orgânica, para aumentar a renda agrícola e diminuir a pobreza.

Productivity and profitability assessment of organically grown vegetables embedded in rice based cropping sequences in Sikkim Himalayas, North East India

Aim: The objective of the present study was to identify economically viable, profitable and resource efficient vegetables embedded rice-based cropping sequences under organic management for marginal and small farmers of Sikkim Himalayas, India.Methodology: Three-year fixed plot study was conducted to evaluate seven rice–based cropping sequences viz., rice–fallow (farmers’ practice), rice–fenugreek (leafy vegetable), rice–coriander (leaves), rice–radish, rice–broccoli, rice–potato and rice–vegetable pea were replicated four-times in a completely randomized block design. Results: Among the various rice – based cropping sequences, cultivation of rice–coriander (leaves) recorded higher production (67.3 kg ha-1 day-1), system productivity (24.6 t ha-1), relative economic efficiency (1040%) and net returns (376.1x103). However, rice-broccoli and rice–vegetable pea sequences recorded 8.6 and 4.4% higher B: C ratio, respectively, over the rice–coriander system. With regards to soil health, rice – vegetable pea cropping sequences resulted in maximum improvement in soil organic carbon (SOC) (1.26%), available soil N (415.2 kg ha-1), P (22.8 kg ha-1) and K (411.5 kg ha-1), soil microbial biomass carbon (SMBC) (344.7 µg MBC g-1 soil), dehydrogenase activity (DHA) (24.0 µg TPFg-1 soil h-1) and fluorescin di acetate (FDA) (38.8 µg FDAg-1 soil h-1) among the cropping sequences. Interpretation: Induction of vegetables in rice–fallow system under assured irrigation condition of Sikkim Himalayas, India not only enhances the farm productivity and profitability but also sustain the soil health on long term basis. Thus, rice-vegetable pea/coriander/broccoli based production systems under organic management hold great promises for sustaining livelihood of organic growers in Sikkim Himalayas over conventional rice– fallow system.

Quality and sensory acceptance of 'Pérola' pineapple grown in soil with application of organic fertilizer / Qualidade e aceitação sensorial de abacaxi 'Pérola' cultivado em solo submetido à aplicação de fertilizante orgânico

ABSTRACT: Type of fertilizer and doses used are factors that influence the quality of pineapple fruit. This study aimed to evaluate the physico-chemical and sensorial quality of organically grown 'Pérola' pineapple and recommend the effective dose for best fruit quality, especially regarding sensorial acceptance. Effect of doses of 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 t ha-1 of "bokashi" organic fertilizer on color, weight, pH, titratable acidity, soluble solids, soluble solids/titratable acidity ratio (SS/TA), vitamin C content, sensory acceptance and purchase intention was evaluated. Increasing doses of bokashi positively influenced weight and titratable acidity of the fruits and negatively affected the SS/TA ratio. Fruits produced with doses between 20t ha-1 and 40t ha-1. had good sensorial acceptance and were considered to have ideal acidity, sweetness and texture by most consumers. The authors recommend using 20 t ha-1 of bokashi, as this dose promotes the production of high quality fruits, with satisfactory SS/TA ratio and high sensorial acceptance.

RESUMO: O tipo de adubo empregado e as doses ministradas são fatores que influenciam a qualidade do fruto de abacaxi. O estudo objetivou avaliar a qualidade físico-química e a aceitação sensorial de abacaxi 'Pérola' orgânico e recomendar a dose de adubo que produza frutos de melhor qualidade. Avaliou-se o efeito de doses de 10, 20, 30, 40 e 50 t de fertilizante orgânico do tipo "bokashi" ha-1 nas características cor, peso, acidez titulável, sólidos solúveis, ratio, vitamina C, aceitação sensorial e intenção de compra dos frutos. Doses crescentes de "bokashi" influenciaram positivamente a massa e a acidez titulável dos frutos e negativamente a relação sólidos solúveis/acidez titulável. Os frutos produzidos com doses entre 20t ha-1 e 40 t ha-1 tiveram boa aceitação sensorial e foram considerados com acidez, doçura e textura ideais pela maior parte dos consumidores. Recomenda-se o uso de 20 t de fertilizante orgânico do tipo "Bokashi" ha-1, pois essa dose contribui para a produção de "frutos de primeira", com relação sólidos solúveis/AT satisfatória e elevada aceitação sensorial.

Design specifications of a heat applicator weed controller device for family farms / Especificações para o projeto de um mecanismo aplicador de calor para o combate de plantas espontâneas dirigido à agricultura familiar

ABSTRACT: One of the difficulties faced by organic food farming families is weed management without the application of chemical products. Thus, this study aimed to establish the design specifications for the development of a heat applicator device for small organic family farms. The implemented methodology allowed the division of the project to phases composed by different tasks. This paper addresses the informational phase, which identifies client needs, according to the lifecycle of the product, in order to establish the design specifications. The declared needs of 40 customers were identified and converted to the requirements of 24 clients. This resulted in 26 design specifications, displayed in order of importance, and distributed along the product's entire life cycle. Nine requirements were considered to be the most important; namely working speed, target applied temperature, application height variables, weed elimination, production costs, operation costs, energy consumption, weight, and main crop damage.

RESUMO: Uma das dificuldades dos agricultores familiares que produzem alimentos orgânicos é o manejo de plantas espontâneas sem a aplicação de produtos químicos. Sendo assim, objetivou-se estabelecer as especificações de projeto no desenvolvimento de um mecanismo aplicador de calor para o combate de plantas espontâneas, dirigido à agricultura familiar orgânica. A metodologia de projeto utilizada permite dividi-lo em fases, que são compostas por diferentes tarefas. O presente trabalho contempla a fase de projeto informacional, na qual são identificadas as necessidades dos clientes de acordo com o ciclo de vida do produto no sentido de estabelecer as especificações de projeto. Foram identificadas 40 declarações de necessidades de clientes, as quais foram transformadas em 24 requisitos de clientes, originando 26 requisitos de projeto hierarquizados, distribuídos ao longo de todo o ciclo de vida do produto, resultando nas especificações de projeto do produto. Os nove requisitos apontados como mais importantes foram: velocidade de trabalho; temperatura aplicada ao alvo; variação da altura de aplicação; eliminação das plantas espontâneas; custo de produção; custo de operação; consumo de energia; danificação da cultura implantada e peso.

Effect of pigeon pea intercropping or shading with leucaena plants on the occurrence of the coffee leaf miner and on its predation by wasps in organic coffee plantings / Efeito da consorciação com feijão-guandu ou sombreamento com plantas de leucena na ocorrência do Bicho-mineiro e sua predação por vespas em lavouras de café orgânico

ABSTRACT: The infestation of coffee leaf miner and its predation by wasps were assessed in commercial organic coffee plantings shaded with leucaena or intercropped with pigeon pea. Plantings in northern Paraná were assessed every two weeks from June 2011 to December 2012. The percent of infested leaves, number of mines per leaf and the percent of predation by wasps (indicated by lacerations) were determined. Fewer coffee leaf miners and fewer mines per leaf were found in pigeon pea intercropped plantings (28.4% and 0.3, respectively) than in shaded plantings with leucaena (48.1% and 0.8, respectively). More predation by wasps was found in the shaded (27.2%) than in the intercropped (13.2%) plantings. Suggestions for new studies are presented along with suggestions for managing the leaf miner in coffee plantings.

RESUMO: A infestação de bicho-mineiro e a sua predação por vespas foram avaliadas em lavouras comerciais de café orgânico sombreadas com leucena ou consorciadas com feijão guandu. As lavouras situadas na região Norte do Paraná foram avaliadas a cada duas semanas de junho de 2011 a dezembro de 2012. Determinou-se o percentual de folhas infestadas, o número de minas por folha e a porcentagem de predação por vespas (indicada pela laceração das minas). Menor infestação do Bicho-mineiro e o menor número de minas por folha foi verificada na lavoura consorciada com feijão guandu (28,4% e 0,3; respectivamente) em relação a lavoura sombreada com leucina (48,1% e 0,8; respectivamente). Maior predação por vespas foi verificada na lavoura sombreada (27,2%) em relação a lavoura consorciada (13,18%). Sugestões de novas pesquisas e para o manejo do bicho-mineiro em lavouras de café são apresentadas.

Effects of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Soil Conditions on Crop Plant Growth

We investigated the effects on various crops of inoculation with species of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in soils from different sources and selected AMF species suitable for domestic environment-friendly farming. Effects on plants varied with the AMF species used. In carrot, Scutellospora heterogama, Acaulospora longula, and Funneliformis mosseae had a positive effect on growth of the host, whereas AMF had only weak effects on the growth of red pepper and leek. AMF inoculation had positive effects on the growth of carrot and sorghum. The results of this study indicate the nature of the relationship between soil, plants, and AMF; this study therefore has important implications for the future use of AMF in environment-friendly agriculture.

Análisis prospectivo de los bioinsumos agrícolas en Colombia: una consulta a expertos / Prospective analysis of agricultural bioinoculants in Colombia: an expert consultation

La productividad y sostenibilidad de la agricultura en Colombia pueden ser influidas positivamente a través del aprovechamiento de la biodiversidad para la producción de bioinsumos. Fueron analizados a mediano y largo plazo, los posibles escenarios futuros generados por las regulaciones que intervienen en el avance tecnológico de los bioinsumos, a través de la aplicación de una encuesta Delphi, con la participación de 23 expertos, teniendo en cuenta las tres dimensiones del desarrollo sostenible. Sobre la base de este estudio, se encontró que el 65% de los expertos consideran que el impacto de la innovación o el desarrollo tecnológico del uso de bioinsumos en la producción agrícola, tiene un alto impacto económico con un nivel de concordancia significativo (≥0.05). Adicionalmente, el 65% seleccionó como el mejor escenario, en el cual se den condiciones que promuevan mayor desarrollo, acceso y aplicación de los bioinsumos, de tal forma que se incremente el ritmo de incorporación de la tecnología por parte de los productores. En conclusión, más allá del nivel de desarrollo tecnológico, es necesario revisar los procesos legislativos para la comercialización de los bioinsumos, fue evidente que el éxito futuro de la industria de la producción de productos biológicos dependerá de la gestión de empresas innovadoras, la eficiente comercialización de los mismos, la educación y transferencia a los productores y el progreso de la investigación.

Productivity and sustainability of agriculture in Colombia can be influenced positively through the use of biodiversity for the production of bioinoculants. They were analyzed in the medium and long term, the future scenarios generated by the regulations involved in the technological advancement of bio-products through the application of a Delphi survey, with the participation of 23 experts in bio-products, taking into account the three dimensions sustainable development. Based on this study, it was found that 65% of the experts believe that the impact of innovation and technological development of the use of bio- products in agricultural production, has a high economic impact with a significant level of agreement (≥0.05). Additionally, 65% selected as the best scenario, in which conditions that promote greater development, access and application of bio-products, so that the rate of adoption of technology is increased by the producers to make. In conclusion, beyond the level of technological development is necessary to revise the legislative process for the marketing of bio-products, it was clear that the future success of the industry in the production of biological products depend on the management of innovative enterprises, efficient marketing thereof, education and transfer to producers and the progress of the investigation.

Impact of sugarcane cultivation on the biological attributes of an oxisol in the brazilian savannah / Impacto do cultivo da cana-de-açúcar nos atributos biológicos em latossolo no cerrado brasileiro

Sugarcane is fundamental for the energy matrix in Brazil. The evaluation of biochemical attributes in different sugarcane production systems provides information on their environmental sustainability. Altogether, soil biochemical attributes are considered very sensitive indicators of changes in soil properties and of alterations caused by soil management and land-use systems. The aim of this work was to study the effect of organic and conventional sugarcane cultivation systems on microbial soil properties. Changes in carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) microbial and microbial activity were evaluated in a Cerrado Oxisol in the state of Goiás, Brazil, cultivated with sugarcane in three different production systems: organic (Organic Cane - OC), conventional with burning (Burned Cane - BC), and conventional without burning (Raw Cane - RC). The native Cerrado (NC) and other cultivated pasture (PT) were used as references. The soil samples were collected during the dry and rainy seasons from two depths: 0-10 and 10-20 cm. The chronological order of the implementation of the land-use (NC, PT and sugarcane) and cultivation (RC, BC, OC) systems were: NC, PT, RC/BC, OC. The microbial biomass C (CSMB), microbial biomass N (NSMB), basal respiration (Br), metabolic quotient (qCO2) and the CSMB/Corg, NSMB/Ntotal and CSMB/NSMB ratios were determined. The different land-use and cultivation systems influenced microbial biomass and activity. The replacement of conventional tillage for organic system recovered CSMB and NSMB levels and improved recycling of nutrients in the microbial biomass (NSMB/Ntotal). The conventional tillage system with burning (BC) was less efficient in use of energy and carbon (high qCO2), resulting in a loss of C-CO2 to the atmosphere.

A cana-de-açúcar é de suma importância na matriz energética brasileira. A avaliação dos atributos bioquímicos do solo nos diferentes sistemas de produção da cana-de-açúcar fornece informações sobre a sustentabilidade ambiental destes sistemas de produção. Os atributos bioquímicos do solo são considerados indicadores muito sensíveis às alterações causadas nas propriedades do solo, em função do manejo nos diferentes sistemas de produção agrícola. O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar o efeito do cultivo de cana-de-açúcar em sistema orgânico e convencional nas propriedades microbiológicas do solo. As alterações no carbono (C) e nitrogênio (N) microbiano e na atividade microbiana foram avaliadas em um Latossolo Vermelho sob Cerrado no estado de Goiás, Brasil, cultivado com cana-de-açúcar em três diferentes sistemas de produção: cultivo orgânico (CO), convencional com queima (CQ) e cultivo convencional sem queima da palhada e cana crua (CC). Uma área de cerrado nativo (CN) e outra cultivada com pastagem (PT) foram usadas como referências. As amostras de solo foram coletadas em duas épocas: seca e chuvosa; e em duas profundidades: 0-10 cm e 10-20 cm. A ordem cronológica de implementação do uso da terra foram: CN, PT e cana-de-açúcar; os sistemas de cultivo foram: CN, PT, CC/CQ, OC. O carbono da biomassa microbiana do solo (CBMS), nitrogênio da biomassa microbiana do solo (NBMS), respiração basal (Rb), quociente metabólico (qCO2) e as razões CBMS/Corg e NBMS/NTotal foram determinados. Os diferentes sistemas de produção da cana-de-açúcar alteraram a biomassa e a atividade microbiana. A substituição do sistema de cultivo convencional pelo sistema de cultivo orgânico recuperou os teores de CBMS e NBMS e melhorou a reciclagem de nutrientes na biomassa microbiana (NBMS/NTotal). O sistema de cultivo convencional com queima (CQ) foi o menos eficiente na utilização do carbono como energia (alto qCO2), resultando em perdas de C-CO2 para a atmosfera.

Controle de plantas invasoras em cultivo orgânico e convencional de capim-limão (Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf. ) / Weed control in organic and conventional crops of lemongrass

O cultivo orgânico é preconizado para o capim-limão (Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf.) como planta medicinal promissora ao desenvolvimento de fármacos no Brasil. Objetivou-se avaliar técnicas de controle de plantas invasoras sobre componentes de produção de capim limão em cultivos orgânico e convencional. Dois experimentos foram instalados sob delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições, em esquema fatorial 2x2x3, considerando-se duas áreas (orgânico e convencional) e os tratamentos combinando cobertura morta (presente e ausente) e técnicas de controle de plantas invasoras (capina manual, roçada e nenhuma). Altura, perfilhamento, teor e rendimento total de óleo essencial de capim-limão no cultivo orgânico foram superiores ao convencional, mas a produtividade de biomassa aérea seca não diferiu entre ambos. A capina, com ou sem cobertura morta, favoreceu o rendimento de óleo no cultivo orgânico.

Organic farming is recommended for lemongrass as a promising medicinal plant for drug development in Brazil. The purpose of this paper was to evaluate the effect of the techniques to control weed on the plant height, tillering, biomass productivity, content and yield of the essential oil of lemon grass in organic and conventional crops. Two experiments were set in a completely randomized design with four replications, at a 2x2x3 factorial scheme, considering two areas (organic and conventional) and treatments combining mulching (present and absent) and weed control techniques (hoeing, skimming and none). Plant height, tillering, content and yield of the essential oil of lemongrass were better in the organic crop, but the biomass productivity did not differ between both areas. The biomass production was better in the conventional crop as to weed control, with or without mulching, and for organic crop under hoeing or skimming with mulching. Hoeing or skimming with no mulching improved the oil content in organic crops. Hoeing or skimming with mulching was better than any other weed control technique with no mulching, and hoeing was better than skimming, justifying its recommendation as a technique for this crop system.