Mexican Sunflower is fast growing, not fast enough here because we would like to use it extensively as soil conditioner and fertilizer. It is a weed and invasive species that originated from Central America.
- High in Pottasium (low in Mg). As fertilizer contains 1.76% N, 0.82% P, and 3.92% K.
In comparison cattle manure 0.6% N 0.4% P 0.5% K
Giliricidia 3.26% N 0.41% P 2.76% K - Soil conditioner, i.e. loosens soil.
Much needed here because of clayey soil that becomes like rock when dry and prevents root growth. - Decomposes fast, so nutrients available quickly.
That means can be used for short duration crops such as vegetables. - Grows from plant cuttings. i.e. easily propagated.
The plant cuttings seem to be tolerant of hard water (High Mg, Ca). - Attracts Butterflies and Bees (a big plus).
- Beautiful Flowers
References and Links
Study of Mexican Sunflower on Ricehttp://www.agrilearning.goviya.lk/Paddy/Paddy_Research/Paddy_pdf/A27.pdf
NPK values of Manures
http://www.allotment-garden.org/compost-fertiliser/npk-manures-compost.php
sbarrkum
Fertilizers are food for plants. Fertilizer helps farmers feed our growing population.
ReplyDeleteIts good to know its uses cos l have it and it grows very fast in my shamba. For now l swear never to cut and burn.
ReplyDelete