Question

How is green manure prepared? Give a schematic representation of the preparation of green manure.

Answer 1

Hint: Green manure is used as a fertilizer for the soil for a particular crop by the intake of nitrogen. It is a good way to provide nutrition to the soil. It is a natural process and therefore does not harm the crops much. Hence, it enhances the overall structure of the soil. Green manure is also called a cover crop for soil to obtain nutrients.

Complete answer:
- A green manure crop can be cut and ploughed directly into the soil or can be left in the ground for prolonged time before tilling the areas of the garden.
- First of all compost has to be made. It can be made by adding old vegetables, leaves, food scraps or grass. A heap of the mixture can be created.
- Planting of desired seeds is to be done which we select as green manure.
- Nitrogen fertilizers can be used because it is a major component of chlorophyll which is very essential to plants in order to perform photosynthesis. But the amount of fertilizer should be minimal as it can have a negative impact on the soil fertility.
- Allowing the growth of plants as it is a bit time consuming process.
- Finally, the beds can be turned over and a layer of material can be applied to the soil which would improve its fertility and health. This is also known as mulching.

Note: Types of green manures mainly include legumes and non-legumes. Legumes are plants having roots and they together work with bacteria in soil to trap up the nitrogen which becomes essential to them. Non legumes only serve as a cover crop. They enhance soil with organic matter.