EXPLOITATION OF EM.1-TREATED BLEND OF ORGANIC RESOURCES AND HUMIC ACID FOR ORGANIC BERSEEM (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) PRODUCTION

Abstract

A field trial was conducted to evaluate blends of organic resources and humic acids, in order to enhance organic berseem forage production. The objective of this study was to compare an EM.1 (effective microorganisms)-treated blend of organic resources with an untreated blend of organic resources, and thereby evaluate the usefulness of humic acid as an organic fertilizer. The two types of blends,each with 4 application levels(0, 15, 30, and 45 t·ha−1), and humic acid (4 application levels: 0, 15, 30, and 45 kg·ha−1) were evaluated using a randomized complete block design with a split-plot arrangement (blend types were the main plot factor and humic acid a sub-plot factor). Except for the difference in EM.1 inoculation, both blends were prepared by co-composting cow manure, poultry manure, and kitchen waste (2:1:1 ratio by volume, respectively). The differences among treatments with respect to fresh and dry yield, as well as mineral composition were recorded. The blend treated with effective microorganisms was found to be a more effective fertilizer than the untreated blend. Additionally, heavier application of both types of organic resource blends and humic acid enhanced both fresh and dry yields, and improved the mineral composition of the crop. These findings are valuable for organic growers and it may open a new avenue for researchers worldwide. Key words: Effective microorganisms, Organic fertilizers, Composting, Mineral composition