Get Set Go ....

While the “battle” was on with the dogs, the internal work of the polyhouse was continuing. A mixture of red soil, cowdung and rice husk was spread inside the polyhouse. Red soil is used since it drains the water easily. Cowdung adds to the fertility of the soil. Rice husk ensures that the porosity of the planting medium is maintained.

 

Rice husk added to the soil

After the soil mixed with cowdung and rice husk was spread, planting beds were prepared.

 

Beds are ready

On these beds, the drip lines were laid. The drip lines ensure that only enough water is given to the plants and unlike conventional farming methods, water wastage is avoided. The Fogger system was also installed, that would help in maintaining the temperature and humidity inside the polyhouse.

 

Drip irrigation lines installed

The final step in the infrastructure preparation was fumigation of the beds. The fumigation was carried out with a 3.5% solution of Hydrogen peroxide. This would reduce the incidences of soil borne diseases.

And so finally after much trails and tribulations, the polyhouse is ready. And I am ready to plant the vegetable seeds in it. As already decided, I am adopting the organic method of vegetable cultivation.

Now there is a huge debate on what exactly is “Organic” – check out this article that appeared in Mint few days back. http://www.livemint.com/Leisure/3XsC4njkOUmz29mZGlKeQO/Trend-Tracker--The-great-green-wash.html

At my farm, vegetables will be grown without use of chemicals. The inputs used would be certified organic inputs and I am also planning to go for an organic certification for my vegetables.

In the coming few weeks, the organic produce will be ready for consumption.  And Yes this can be a part of the food on your table too. Watch this space for more details