On Sunday 29th May 2022, OES Polyhouse at the farm campus was again buzzing with activity. The participants of the farming program had come for the third session of the Polyhouse farm learning program. All of them were looking forward to the session.
Farm coaches Venkatesh Nallamilli and Shilpa briefed the participants on the day's activity lineup. There was a detailed discussion about seeds and their storage. Firstly, they explained that seeds are classified into two types based on cotyledons -monocotyledon and dicotyledonous seeds. This was further demonstrated by charts to explain the difference between monocots and dicots. They illustrated that monocot leaf venation is parallel and dicot venation is network type, showing this in live plants. There is a difference in the root structures as well. Root system of monocots is fibrous, and dicots are taproot types. After seed classification, they explained weeds and their identification. We know that weeds are competitors to the cultivated crop. So they need to be controlled otherwise, they compete with the cultivated crop for light, water, and nutrients. A detailed explanation of the weed classification and its management practices was done. Generally, weeds are classified as grasses, sedges, and broad-leafed. Grasses and sedges are monocot plants and broadleaf plants are dicots. In grass weed plants stem is cylindrical and in sedges the stem is triangular. The organic method for controlling weeds is mulching, which prevents weeds to grow, and creates a microclimate for the plants.
After briefing on seeds and weeds, they demonstrated how to preserve seeds to protect them from pests and diseases. They illustrated for preserving seeds one kilogram of seeds, we need half a kilogram of ash powder to be mixed with seeds. The reason behind adding ash powder is to increase the shelf life of the seed in terms of seed germination and vigor. Secondly, it absorbs the moisture from seeds, and it also blocks the respiration system of insects.
After the theory session, it was time for everyone to spray Jeevamrutham solution on their respective crop patches. The Jeevamrutham was prepared on 22nd May, during the last session. This solution was in a concentrated form. First, everyone got water for diluting this as per 1-part jeevamrutham to 10 parts water. This diluted jeevamrutham was sprayed on the plants very carefully. The session ended with participants harvesting Bhindi(Okra), Gongura, and Mint from the existing crop in OES farm patches. All of them filled their bags with this harvest very happily, looking forward to cooking these fresh vegetables back home.
About Organo Et School (OES)
We recognize that for any positive impact to be sustainable, it must be long-term and inter-generational. Organo Et School strives to create an apt learning environment that will support and empower families as well as individuals to embrace sustainable living mindsets and habits.
Organo Et School is a learning initiative set up by Organo in 2017 and has been facilitating field visits and workshops for Schools and interest Groups. Organo Et School has had over 25+ schools, 6500+ students and 2800+ adults have participated over the last 5 years.
We believe in connecting children & adults with nature.
Please send your queries to us at oes@organo.co.in and by phone 9154100775 today!
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