Use of Biomass Ashes in Agriculture with Reference to Farming Practices in Vidarbha, Maharashtra, India

As a regular farming practice in India, especially in Vidarbha, biomass ashes (BMAs) are spread on farmland. BMA forms a protective layer on the soil surface and acts as a barrier, thereby preventing direct contact between pesticides and soil. BMA acts: (i) as an adsorbent for removal of pesticides; (ii) as a soil additive and water enhancer, and (iii) as a micronutrient source for plants. In this study, paraquat, a representative chemical was selected to prove the hypothesis that BMAs are the most efficient adsorbents of herbicides used in Vidarbha. The adsorption capacity (mg/m²) of BFA for removal of paraquat was found to be greater than that reported for natural adsorbents. Based on adsorption capacity, RHA and BFA dosages per hectare of land are recommended for different crops and fruits.