“Will potatoes from North India grow in our courtyard?” Children practicing eco-friendly scientific farming say that we only need to prepare soil full of nutrients for potatoes.
The children of Kinalur Government UP School are confident that they can grow any crop at home by scientifically studying the structure of the soil.
Netuco, the first lesson included in the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan’s summer activity book, had proposed this farming method as a comprehensive solution to climate change in Kerala by teacher Sugatakumari.
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As part of the environmental work, the children focus on agriculture along with waste disposal.
As part of the project, various types of soil were collected from the homes of about twenty-five children.
According to the report of the District Soil Testing Center, the acidity-alkaline ratio, the amount of salts, and the deficiency of elements were understood.
They planted mulberries first. Composting mulberry leaves and stems can provide essential nutrients for potatoes!
Scientific studies have shown that one kilogram of potatoes absorbs six grams of nitrogen, two grams of phosphorus pentoxide, and 9 grams of potassium oxide from the soil. This means that the soil in which we intend to sow seeds should have this much essential nutrients.
The children are practicing soil preparation to cultivate not only potatoes but also avocados, musambi, sugarcane, cassava, okra, and fenugreek in this way.
Soil conservation can help to solve the problems of increasing pest infestation and decreasing yields due to climate change to some extent.
Through this research project, which will last from June to March, the children are proving that if we can prepare nutrient-rich soil for coconuts, bananas, and cassava, many problems in the agricultural sector can be solved.
“While farming, we ldo not consider the nutrients required for each crop and the diversity of local soil.
Through this project, children are realizing that soil knowledge is essential for sustainable farming.”
Sumita Teacher, convener of the environmental club, says.
