Differentiate between Biofertilizer and Green manuring. Give the recommended dose & schedule of chemical fertilizer for Mulberry Garden maintained under Irrigated & Rainfed Conditions.

Differentiating Biofertilizer and Green Manuring:

Biofertilizer:

• Biofertilizers are live microorganisms (like bacteria, fungi, or algae) that enrich the soil by fixing atmospheric nitrogen or solubilizing soil nutrients.
• They promote plant growth and soil fertility through biological processes.
• Examples include Rhizobium, Azotobacter, Azospirillum, and mycorrhizal fungi.
• Biofertilizers are applied to the soil or directly to plant roots to enhance nutrient availability and improve soil health.
• They are eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives to chemical fertilizers, promoting soil biodiversity and reducing environmental impact.

Green Manuring:

• Green manuring involves growing specific plants (called green manure crops) and incorporating them into the soil to improve soil fertility and structure.
• Green manure crops are typically fast-growing legumes or grasses that are plowed back into the soil while still green and actively growing.
• They add organic matter to the soil, increase nitrogen levels, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure.
• Examples of green manure crops include clover, alfalfa, rye, and vetch.
• Green manuring is a natural and cost-effective method to improve soil fertility without relying on synthetic fertilizers.

Recommended Dose & Schedule of Chemical Fertilizers for Mulberry Garden:

1. Irrigated Mulberry Garden:

• Mulberries grown under irrigated conditions have access to regular water supply, allowing for optimized nutrient uptake.
• Recommended dose of chemical fertilizers (per acre) for mature mulberry trees:
  • Nitrogen (N): 150-200 kg/acre/year, divided into 3-4 applications during the growing season (e.g., March, June, September).
  • Phosphorus (P2O5): 50-60 kg/acre/year, applied as a basal dose before planting or during the initial stages of growth.
  • Potassium (K2O): 100-120 kg/acre/year, applied in 2-3 split doses during the growing season.
  • Micronutrients (like zinc, iron, manganese) may be applied based on soil test results to address specific deficiencies.

2. Rainfed Mulberry Garden:

• Rainfed mulberry gardens rely on natural rainfall, which can influence nutrient availability and plant growth.
• Recommended dose of chemical fertilizers (per acre) for rainfed mulberry trees:
  • Nitrogen (N): 100-150 kg/acre/year, applied in 2-3 split doses during the growing season to coincide with rainfall events.
  • Phosphorus (P2O5): 40-50 kg/acre/year, applied as a basal dose before planting or during initial stages of growth.
  • Potassium (K2O): 80-100 kg/acre/year, applied in 2-3 split doses during the growing season.
  • Micronutrients should be supplemented based on soil test results to address any deficiencies caused by leaching or limited nutrient availability.

Note: The recommended dose and schedule of chemical fertilizers may vary based on local soil conditions, mulberry variety, and specific agronomic practices. Regular soil testing is essential to monitor nutrient levels and adjust fertilizer applications accordingly, ensuring optimal growth and productivity of mulberry trees in both irrigated and rainfed conditions. Additionally, organic amendments like compost or farmyard manure can be incorporated to improve soil health and reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers over time.