New methods of composting
SWAHILYA
Sri Lanka’s The Gami Seva Sevana (GSS)at Galaha near Kandy has come out with unique methods of composting soil with organic fertilizers. .
With expertise gathered from countries such as Philippines, Auroville in Puducherry and Chennai in Tamil Nadu, on organic manure and vermi-composting GSS practises unique methods of composting to suit the hilly terrain and using forest products in th
e process.
Three methods
The three composting methods are the Indore method where a dry layer of leaves is placed on the ground and then animal dung mixed with water, old compost and ash on the next layer, followed by green material and a heal is built to a height of five feet. The compost is mixed every 14 - 21 days by adding adequate water to speed up decaying process.
The unique basket method is done using glyricidia as the raw material. The sticks are planted in a closely bound circle. The waste materials are put into the basket for decomposition. Consistent moisture is maintained to facilitate micro organic activities.
Area found suitable
The box method is especially suited for mountain slopes where three or more crates are placed in a terrace farming method.
Composting starts in the top most bin and the partially decomposed materials are sent down to the second box for decomposition and then transferred to the third box where the final product is ready for use.
GSS also produces vermi wash preparation in plastic drums with a tap fitted beneath. The drum is filled with loamy soil, sand, goat dung mixed with straw, bricks and kitchen refuse pushed from the top. Water trickles from a container over the drum.
One has to open the tap and collect the vermi wash water. The liquid mixed with water in the ratio of 1:5 is rich in micronutrients and is sprayed on the plants.
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