Pay special attention to these things while preparing Azolla grass; you will get better production
Azolla Farming Tips: Azolla is a versatile aquatic plant that is often used as feed for fish, fowl, and animals. This fern grows readily in tiny groups on the water’s surface and spreads quickly. Its primary species, Azolla pinnata, is located in India and is heat-tolerant. Anabaena, a small kind of blue-green algae found in its leaves, uses sunlight to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. As a result, azolla is beneficial for both animal feed and green manure, which is used to provide nitrogen to crops. However, farmers sometimes make errors while making azolla, which forces them to lose money.
Which Ten Considerations should be made before making Azolla?
Utilizing Azolla
In rice fields, farmers may readily use Azolla as organic green manure. Before planting, around 10 tons of fresh Azolla must be placed in a field that is 2-4 inches wet. Additionally, to encourage its development, 30–40 kg of super phosphate are sprayed. The ideal temperature range for Azolla development is thought to be between 30 and 35 °C. In the field, it also manages small weeds. Using it in paddy may boost yields by 5–15%. Additionally, azolla may convert ambient nitrogen and carbon dioxide into ammonia and carbohydrates, respectively.
Remember these ten points
1. The Temperature
The ideal range for azolla production is 25–30 °C. Azolla should be kept out of direct sunlight if the temperature rises beyond 30 °C.
2. Setting up the Location and Pit
Every corner of the azolla-producing pits should be level to prevent harm to the plants and regulate water flow during rainy seasons.
3. Level of Production
Make sure you produce at least 300–350 grams of Azolla per square meter every day.
4. Management of Nutrients
Regularly fill the pits with cow dung and super phosphate to provide the plants the nourishment they need.
5. Control of Pests and Fungi
Use pesticide or fungicide right away if there is a fungal or pest infestation. Restart manufacturing at a different place and with a different culture if required.
6. Soil Transformation
To ensure that Azolla continues to get the necessary minerals while preserving the nitrogen balance, replace the old soil with around 5 kg of new soil every 30 days.
7. Management of Water
To maintain a balanced nitrogen level, replace 25–30% of the water in the pits with new water every 10 days.
8. Cleaning
For a new beginning, thoroughly empty and clean the pits every six months and add a solution of water, cow manure, and Azolla culture.
9. Measurement of pH
To keep Azolla healthy, maintain a regulated pH in the water and periodically test it.
10. Move
Start a fresh Azolla culture at a different place if pests or fungi are seriously affecting the Azolla.