In this chemical-farming world, there’s a growing interest among people in growing food naturally, as people of old times used to. One such very ancient method is Vrikshayurveda, or plant science, as practiced in the subcontinent of India. Ancient wisdom about caring for and tending to plants and crops is becoming relevant once again, especially in organic farming. Let us see why and how.
What is Vrikshayurveda, and why should the farmer care?
Vrikshayurveda is like Ayurveda for plants. Just as Ayurveda helps keep people healthy using natural methods, Vrikshayurveda helps keep plants healthy using natural ways. This knowledge comes from old Indian texts written hundreds of years ago. These texts tell us how to grow healthy plants without artificial chemicals.
‘Vrikshayurveda’ defines what it is—’Vriksha’ defines trees or plants, and ‘Ayurveda‘ establishes the science of life. So, the whole science of plant life is given, from preparing soil to protecting a plant from its natural pest.
How do the applications of Vrikshayurveda enrich the soil for farming?
In Vrikshayurveda, the soil is not simply dirt but alive and breathing. Teachings indicate that sound-quality soil feels soft, smells as sweet as the earth does right after the rain, and bristles with earthworms. It suggests natural applications like cow dung, cow urine, honey, milk, etc., in a specific mix to improve the soil.
Old people use a unique mixture known as ‘Kunapa Jala,’ which is prepared by fermenting fish waste, meat, and other animal products mixed with herbs. Adding to the soil gives plants more strength and makes them grow well. New research has proven that Kunapa Jala has nutrient value and good bacteria to enhance plant growth.
What does Vrikshayurveda say about seeds and planting?
Seeds have been given special attention in Vrikshayurveda. It teaches the farmer to select the best seeds by performing simple tests, such as putting them in water: good seeds sink while bad ones float. Before planting, it suggests treating seeds with special natural mixtures to strengthen them.
The texts also provide information on the best time to sow different crops. They say we must observe the moon’s phases and seasons before sowing. This sounds quite ancient, but modern science has proved that moon phases affect plant growth due to changes in gravity and moisture.
How does Vrikshayurveda treat plant diseases and pests?
It teaches many ways of naturally protecting plants instead of using chemical pesticides. For example, neem leaf extract could be sprayed over the plant to keep insects away. Similarly, it tells about sowing different varieties of crops together and companion planting, which controls pests and diseases, something we discuss today.
It recommends using plant disease control methods using turmeric and neem made into pastes, as we now know these products have natural anti-fungal properties and anti-bacterial compounds. These methods do not harm the environment or leave dangerous chemicals in our food.
Are Vrikshayurveda methods feasible in current farming?
Yes, many farmers are doing it successfully today. In comparison to chemical farming, Vrikshayurveda methods are cheaper. Almost all the treatments can be prepared within the farm using readily available local materials. These foods are healthier because they do not contain chemical residues.
Modern research also proves that many of Vrikshayurveda’s practices work well. Scientists have found that herb mixtures mentioned in old texts help plants grow better and fight diseases. Many organic farming methods today resemble what Vrikshayurveda taught thousands of years ago.
What makes Vrikshayurveda unique for Indian farmers?
Vrikshayurveda is especially useful for farmers in India because it has been formulated for the climate and soil available here. The plants and items it refers to are quite easily found in Indian villages. Moreover, many Indian farmers already know some of these procedures from their family traditions, which makes it easier for them to use such practices.
Another advantage is that Vrikshayurveda techniques save water. In most areas in India where water is scarce, these techniques can enable farmers to grow good crops without using much water. These natural fertilizers and pest controls also maintain the soil’s health for many years.
Conclusion: How can farmers start using Vrikshayurveda?
It is easy to start with Vrikshayurveda. The farmer can prepare natural fertilizers from cow dung and local herbs. He can also begin with companion planting, where different crops are grown together, as recommended in the texts. Many agricultural universities now provide training in these methods.
It is good to start small, maybe with one part of the farm, and gradually expand as you learn more. The key is patience because natural farming takes time to show results. However, once it works, the soil becomes more fertile year after year, unlike chemical farming, where soil often becomes less fertile over time.
Remember, Vrikshayurveda has nothing to do with farming techniques but understanding and working with nature rather than against it. By resorting to these time-tested methods, we can produce healthy food while taking proper care of our earth.
REFERENCE LINKS:
- https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/1703#:~:text=Vrikshayurveda%20mainly%20deals%20with%20various,plant%20and%20plant%20disease%20etc.
- https://www.assamicaagro.in/blogs/posts/15662624-vrikshayurveda-organic-farming-an-overview
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4140025/
- https://www.manage.gov.in/nf/resextn/publications/PUB-GBPUAT5.PDF
- https://indica.courses/vrikshayurveda-can-guide-modern-agriculture/
- https://jaims.in/jaims/article/view/1703/1804