Composting and Liquid Formulations: Panacea to Better Yield in Agriculture: A Review
Sugumaran M.P.
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vridhachalam, Cuddalore, India.
Kaja Mohammed.
Agricultural College & Research Institute, TNAU, Coimbatore, India.
Natarajan K. *
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vridhachalam, Cuddalore, India.
Porkodi G.
Agricultural College & Research Institute, TNAU, Kudimiyanmalai, India.
Gayathry G.
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vridhachalam, Cuddalore, India.
Jayakumar J.
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vridhachalam, Cuddalore, India.
Kalaichelvi K.
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vridhachalam, Cuddalore, India.
Akila S
National Agro foundation, Chennai, India.
Sinduja M
National Agro foundation, Chennai, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Liquid formulations, including aqueous, oil, and polymer-based products, often use polysaccharides to alter fluid properties. Liquid inoculants offer cost-effective alternatives to solid carriers, particularly benefiting small producers in India by overcoming transportation and processing challenges. Ideal liquid inoculants are non-toxic, low-cost, uniform, nutrient-supplemented, and support rapid microorganism release and growth. Effective formulations stabilize organisms, ensure easy field delivery, protect against environmental factors, and enhance microbial activity. Rich in nutrients and organic matter, compost enhances the texture, structure, and moisture retention of soil, improving soil qualities and crop productivity. It boosts soil enzyme activity and microbial populations, promoting nitrogen fixation and nutrient availability. Organic manure applications increase soil fertility, water retention, and reduce bulk density. Field and horticultural crops, such as potatoes, chillies, and tomatoes, show significant yield improvements with compost, which also suppresses plant diseases and weed populations.
These findings underscore the importance of adopting liquid formulations and composting as sustainable agricultural practices.
Keywords: Composting, organic manures, soil enzymes, soil microorganisms, liquid bioinoculants