As temperatures drop, farmers face unique challenges that require proactive strategies to keep crops thriving. Savita Sunil Dakle, a farmer from Maharashtra, with over 20 years of expertise, shares valuable tips for maintaining soil health during winter.
1. Boost microbial activity with compost “During winter, when we sow, it takes an extra couple of days for seeds to grow,” says Savita. Adding compost or well-decomposed organic matter before winter helps maintain healthy microbial activity, essential for nutrient recycling.
2. Prevent compaction with deep ploughing “It is crucial to open up and aerate the soil properly,” Savita says. Deep ploughing before winter helps prevent compaction and ensures soil is aerated and warm enough for plant roots to grow properly.
3. Use slow-release fertilisers Cold weather reduces nutrient availability, especially in black cotton and alluvial soils. Savita recommends using slow-release fertilisers or organic amendments like neem cake to ensure steady nutrient supply for winter crops like chickpeas and mustard.
4. Protect from frost In cold regions like Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir, frost damage can affect root growth. “Mulching helps warm the soil,” Savita suggests. Covering plants with frost blankets or plastic sheets can also protect crops like spinach and cauliflower.
5. Retain moisture with mulching “While black or clayey soil has the potential to retain moisture, softer soils don’t,” Savita explains. Mulching is key to retaining moisture during dry winter months, and drip irrigation or rainwater harvesting further aids moisture conservation.
6. Manage soil pH Winter rains can increase soil acidity, which affects crop growth. “We should test soil pH regularly,” Savita advises. Applying lime or dolomite helps neutralise acidity, creating a more favourable environment for crops like rice and cotton.
7. Control erosion with terracing Heavy winter rains can lead to soil erosion, especially in hilly regions. Savita recommends terracing and planting cover crops like barley to stabilise soil. “We create a kind of barrier to prevent topsoil from washing away,” she says.
8. Rotate Crops for Soil Health Winter temperatures determine which crops are planted. Savita advises crop rotation to prevent yield loss and pest damage. “Planting legumes like chickpeas after wheat improves nitrogen levels and breaks pest cycles,” she explains.
Savita’s expert tips help farmers maintain healthy, fertile soil through the winter. By boosting microbial activity, managing moisture, and protecting from frost, farmers can ensure a healthy growing environment for their crops during the cold season.