With modern agriculture adopting sustainable methods, biofertilizers have become a game-changer in increasing soil fertility and crop yield—naturally. These living microorganisms fix nitrogen, solubilize phosphorus, and promote plant growth, making them a suitable substitute for chemical fertilizers. But to reap the maximum benefits, farmers need to know how to use biofertilizers.
In this blog, we will take you through a detailed, step-by-step process of using biofertilizers, their techniques, dos and don’ts, and optimal conditions for usage. We will also introduce you to Kibbutz, a top player in the Indian biofertilizer market, providing excellent-quality organic solutions for sustainable agriculture.
What Are Biofertilizers?
Biofertilizers are materials that carry living microbes that, when used on seeds, the surface of plants, or soil, enhance growth by adding to the availability of nutrients. They comprise bacteria, fungi, and algae that occur naturally to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere, break down organic matter, or mobilize nutrients such as phosphorus and potassium.
Some common biofertilizers are Rhizobium, which facilitates nitrogen fixation in leguminous plants; Azospirillum and Azotobacter, which carry out nitrogen fixation in cereals; Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) that solubilize phosphorus for utilization by plants; Mycorrhiza, fungi that increase water and nutrient uptake; and Potassium Mobilizing Bacteria (KMB), which enhance potassium uptake.
Why Proper Application Matters
Incorrect usage of biofertilizers can diminish their efficiency. These microorganisms require certain conditions to live and function. Soil quality, watering, acidity, and timing are all factors.
Proper use of biofertilizers provides enhanced nutrient supply, enhanced crop development, chemical input reduction, and soil quality in the long term.
Kibbutz: Trusted Biofertilizer Manufacturer in India
Kibbutz is a leading manufacturer of biofertilizers and organic manure in India, providing the farmers of India with innovative and sustainable solutions. With its base in Rajasthan, the products of Kibbutz are created to cater to the requirements of contemporary agriculture while promoting environmental safety and sustained soil fertility.
Kibbutz produces a series of biofertilizer products like Symborhiza Mycorrhizal Biofertilizer, which promotes root development and nutrient absorption; Lal Potash, a mobilizing biofertilizer for potassium; Kora Liquid Organic Manure, which enhances tillering and stress tolerance; and Tricho Prilles, which are protective agents against fungal diseases in the soil.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Biofertilizers
Seed Treatment
Seed treatment makes microorganisms immediately present at the root zone when seed germination happens. Use the suggested dose of biofertilizer, approximately 200 grams per 10 kilograms of seeds. Mix in a sticking compound such as 10% solution of jaggery to bind the biofertilizer with the seeds. Mix the seeds well to facilitate uniform coating. Dry them under shade for roughly 30 minutes and then directly sow.
Seedling Root Dip
It provides early root colonization, particularly for transplanted crops. Make a slurry by dissolving 1 kilogram of biofertilizer in 10 to 15 liters of water. Dip the seedling roots in this slurry for 20 to 30 minutes. Transplant the seedlings to the field as soon as possible after dipping.
Soil Application
Soil application spreads the biofertilizers over the field in uniform distribution, so they can colonize the rhizosphere. Suspend 4 to 5 kilograms of biofertilizer in 50 kilograms of compost or farmyard manure. Sow this over the field in uniform distribution prior to the final plowing or sowing the crop.
Foliar Spray
Foliar spraying is directly feeding the plant surfaces and letting microbes penetrate through the stomata. Use 500 milliliters of liquid biofertilizer mixed in 100 liters of water. Spray this on the crop in the early morning or late afternoon for maximum uptake. Do it two to three times during the crop life for optimal performance.
Drip Irrigation Method
The drip system is a low-waste, low-labor delivery system. Mix the liquid biofertilizer, typically 500 milliliters per acre, with water. Put this solution into the drip irrigation system during watering.
Tips for Effective Biofertilizer Use
Do not use chemical fertilizers and pesticides seven to ten days prior to and following the application of biofertilizers. Ensure proper soil moisture prior to application. Keep biofertilizers in cool, dry locations out of direct sunlight. Use biofertilizers prior to the expiration date for optimal performance. Mixing them with organic matter like compost enhances microbial survival and activity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not use old or low-quality products. Avoid using biofertilizers in extreme dryness or heat. Never blend them with incompatible chemicals. Inappropriate storage and handling can decrease their effectiveness.
The Kibbutz Advantage
Kibbutz provides quality biofertilizers with good shelf life, confirmed microbial count, and excellent field performance. Whether you cultivate cereals, vegetables, pulses, or fruit crops, Kibbutz biofertilizers provide cost-effective, environment-friendly, and guaranteed results.
Environmental Benefits of Biofertilizers
With the use of biofertilizers, groundwater pollution decreases and chemical residues in crops are wiped out. They restore natural microbiota of the soil and decrease greenhouse gases emission. All these benefits render them a chemical-free substitute to conventional farming.
Final Thoughts
Biofertilizers are revolutionizing farming by lowering the use of chemicals, enhancing productivity, and maintaining soil fertility. Farmers can reduce expenses, preserve the environment, and grow healthier crops by applying them the proper way.
Kibbutz is the trust-worthy business associate for farmers in search of the finest in biofertilizers, organic manure, and eco-friendly agri-solutions. Switch to bio-based agriculture or enrich the fertility of your soil – let Kibbutz do the job by delivering science-driven, farmer-verified products.
Log on to Kibbutz India to get a view of our variety of biofertilizers, organic manure, and plant care solutions.
FAQs
Q- 1. How often should biofertilizers be applied?
Ans- According to the crop, biofertilizers can be used at sowing or transplanting and once or twice during growth for maximum benefits.
Q- 2. Can I use biofertilizers with chemical fertilizers?
Ans- Yes, but don’t mix directly. Use biofertilizers first and chemical fertilizers after a gap of seven to ten days.
Q- 3. Are Kibbutz biofertilizers suitable for all crops?
Ans- Yes, Kibbutz products like Symborhiza and Lal Potash are designed for different crops like cereals, vegetables, and pulses.
Q- 4. How do I store biofertilizers?
Ans- Store them in a dry, cool place out of sunlight. Do not expose them to air for long periods.
Q- 5. Do biofertilizers expire?
Ans- Yes. Always refer to the expiry date and use them within six to twelve months from manufacture.