Bihar Farmers Boost Soil Health With Green Manuring Before Rabi Season

Farmers in several districts of Bihar are turning to green manuring to restore soil fertility and reduce dependence on chemical fertilisers before the upcoming Rabi season. Agriculture experts are encouraging growers to cultivate green manure crops such as dhaincha and sunhemp, which are later incorporated into the soil to improve its organic matter and nutrient content.

The practice is gaining popularity as farmers look for low-cost methods to improve soil productivity while reducing cultivation expenses. Scientists say green manuring is one of the simplest ways to maintain long-term soil health.

Green manure crops are grown for a short period and ploughed back into the soil before flowering.

As the plants decompose, they release nutrients and increase organic carbon levels in the soil. This process also improves soil structure, water-holding capacity and microbial activity, creating better conditions for the next crop.

Leguminous green manure crops naturally fix atmospheric nitrogen, reducing the requirement for synthetic nitrogen fertilisers.

Lower Fertiliser Costs

Agricultural experts say farmers using green manuring often require less chemical fertiliser during the following crop season.

Improved nutrient availability allows crops to utilise fertilisers more efficiently, lowering production costs while maintaining healthy growth. The practice is especially beneficial for small and marginal farmers facing rising fertiliser prices.

Researchers recommend incorporating green manure crops at the appropriate stage to maximise nutrient release. Continuous cultivation without adding organic matter gradually reduces soil fertility.

Green manuring helps restore beneficial microorganisms, improves aeration and reduces soil compaction. Healthier soils also absorb and retain rainwater more effectively, making crops more resilient during dry spells.

Scientists believe integrating green manuring with compost, crop rotation and balanced fertiliser use creates a stronger foundation for sustainable farming.

A Practical Natural Farming Technique

Unlike expensive agricultural inputs, green manuring requires limited investment and can be adopted by farmers across different farming systems.

Agriculture departments and Krishi Vigyan Kendras are promoting demonstrations to encourage wider adoption of the practice. Officials say restoring soil health will become increasingly important as farmers seek to improve productivity while reducing dependence on chemical inputs.

With growing awareness about sustainable agriculture, green manuring is emerging as an effective technique for improving soil fertility, lowering cultivation costs and supporting long-term farm productivity in Bihar and other agricultural states.