What is Fermented Organic Manure?

Fermented organic manure (FOM) is an organic fertilizer produced through the controlled fermentation of organic materials, such as agricultural residues, animal manure, and green waste. The fermentation process is carried out using specific microbial inoculants that accelerate the decomposition and transformation of organic matter into a nutrient-rich, stable form that is easily assimilated by plants.

Sources and Types of Fermented Organic Manure

  1. Bokashi:
    • Source: Fermented kitchen waste, garden waste, and agricultural residues using effective microorganisms (EM).
    • Characteristics: Rich in nutrients, with a slightly acidic pH, and quick to decompose in soil.
  2. EM Compost:
    • Source: Organic waste composted using effective microorganisms (EM) which include a mixture of lactic acid bacteria, yeasts, and actinomycetes.
    • Characteristics: High microbial activity, well-decomposed organic matter, and enhanced nutrient content.
  3. Anaerobic Digestion Residues:
    • Source: By-products of anaerobic digestion of organic waste, including animal manure and crop residues.
    • Characteristics: Rich in nutrients and biogas by-products, stabilized organic matter, and reduced pathogens.
  4. Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ):
    • Source: Juice extracted from plants (e.g., weeds, green leafy vegetables) and fermented with sugar and microbial inoculants.
    • Characteristics: Liquid form, rich in plant growth hormones, enzymes, and nutrients.

Characteristics of Fermented Organic Manure

  • Appearance: Dark brown to black, crumbly texture for solid forms; liquid forms are typically dark brown.
  • Odor: Earthy or slightly sour smell, indicating proper fermentation.
  • Moisture Content: Generally around 20-50% for solid forms, aiding in easy application and nutrient release.
  • pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0 to 7.0), suitable for most crops.
  • Organic Matter: High organic matter content, enhancing soil structure and fertility.
  • Microbial Activity: Rich in beneficial microorganisms that aid in nutrient cycling and soil health improvement.

Nutrient Value per 1 kg

The nutrient content of Fermented Organic Manure can vary depending on the source materials and fermentation process. On average, the nutrient values per 1 kg of FOM are:

  • Nitrogen (N): 1.5% – 2.5%
  • Phosphorus (P2O5): 1.0% – 2.0%
  • Potassium (K2O): 1.5% – 3.0%
  • Calcium (Ca): 2.0% – 3.5%
  • Magnesium (Mg): 0.5% – 1.5%
  • Micronutrients: Trace amounts of essential micronutrients such as iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu).

Relevance and Importance

  1. Nutrient Supply: Provides a balanced source of essential nutrients, enhancing soil fertility and plant growth.
  2. Soil Health Improvement: Enhances soil structure, water retention, and microbial activity, promoting healthier soils.
  3. Sustainable Agriculture: Reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, promoting sustainable farming practices.
  4. Environmental Protection: Minimizes nutrient runoff and leaching, reducing the risk of water pollution and eutrophication.
  5. Cost-Effectiveness: Often a cost-effective alternative to synthetic fertilizers, especially when produced on-farm.

Use and Benefits

  1. Improved Soil Fertility: Enriches the soil with organic matter and essential nutrients, enhancing soil fertility and productivity.
  2. Enhanced Plant Growth: Promotes vigorous plant growth by improving nutrient availability, soil structure, and microbial activity.
  3. Disease Suppression: Contains beneficial microorganisms that can suppress soil-borne diseases and pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
  4. Water Retention: Improves soil moisture retention, reducing the need for frequent irrigation and increasing drought resistance.
  5. Sustainable Agriculture: Supports sustainable farming practices by reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers and promoting organic farming.

Crops Benefiting from Fermented Organic Manure

Fermented Organic Manure can be used for a wide variety of crops, including:

  1. Vegetables: Tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, cucumbers, peppers, lettuce.
    • Application Stage: Before planting, mix FOM into the soil to improve fertility. Apply as a top dressing during the growing season to boost nutrient availability.
  2. Fruits: Apples, grapes, strawberries, citrus fruits.
    • Application Stage: Apply FOM in the planting hole during planting and as a mulch around the base of the plants during the growing season.
  3. Cereals: Wheat, rice, maize, barley, oats.
    • Application Stage: Incorporate FOM into the soil before sowing seeds to enhance soil fertility and structure.
  4. Legumes: Soybeans, peas, lentils, chickpeas, beans.
    • Application Stage: Mix FOM into the soil before planting and use as a top dressing to maintain nutrient levels during the growing season.
  5. Root Crops: Radishes, beets, turnips, carrots.
    • Application Stage: Add FOM to the planting beds before sowing seeds to improve soil structure and nutrient content.
  6. Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, cabbage, lettuce.
    • Application Stage: Apply FOM to the soil before planting and as a top dressing during the growing season to provide a steady nutrient supply.

Benefits at Different Crop Stages

  1. Germination and Early Growth: Enhanced root development and early establishment due to better nutrient availability and microbial activity.
  2. Vegetative Stage: Improved plant vigor and growth, leading to robust plant development and increased resistance to stress.
  3. Reproductive Stage: Better flowering and fruit set, resulting in higher yields and improved quality of the produce.

Conclusion

Fermented Organic Manure (FOM) is a valuable resource for sustainable agriculture, offering numerous benefits such as enhanced soil fertility, improved plant growth, and reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers. By utilizing the power of fermentation and beneficial microorganisms, FOM provides a balanced supply of nutrients and supports healthy soil ecosystems. Integrating FOM into crop management practices can lead to healthier plants, improved soil health, and a more sustainable agricultural system.