Agriculture Department Recommends Ridge Furrow Method for Maize Sowing

Key Highlights

• Maize sowing is advised using the Ridge and Furrow Method.

• Saves water and improves soil moisture retention.

• Ensures better plant growth and higher yield.

• Reduces weed growth and lowers labour costs.

• Effective even during uncertain rainfall conditions.

To boost maize production and reduce farming costs, the Agriculture Department of Jabalpur has issued a special advisory encouraging farmers to adopt the Ridge and Furrow Method of sowing. This method is designed to save water, improve crop quality, and ensure better growth even during unpredictable weather conditions. The technique has been successfully demonstrated and is now being promoted actively among farmers.

What is the Ridge Furrow Method?

The Ridge Furrow Method is a special sowing technique where the field is prepared with alternating raised ridges and lower furrows.

• Maize seeds are sown on the ridges

• Furrows help in draining excess water

• Plant-to-plant distance: about 9 inches

• Row-to-row distance: 2 feet

• Seed requirement: About 6 kg of maize seeds per acre

Key Benefits of the Ridge Furrow Method

This method offers several practical and cost-saving advantages, making it ideal for maize farmers.

• Water Conservation: - The furrows allow excess rainwater to drain out easily while maintaining soil moisture around the roots. This reduces the need for irrigation and prevents water wastage.

• Better Yield and Crop Quality: - Proper spacing and efficient water management promote stronger plant growth. Deeper root development also reduces the risk of plants falling during storms, resulting in better quality and higher yield.

• Easy Weed Control: - Water accumulation in furrows limits weed growth, making it easier for farmers to manage the crop. This also reduces labour and saves costs on weeding.

• Works Well in Uncertain Weather: - Unlike traditional methods that require sowing before rainfall, the ridge furrow method allows farmers to sow maize even after the rains begin. This flexibility is helpful during unpredictable monsoons.

• Stronger Crops, Less Damage: - Ridges help in developing strong roots, which improve the plant's resistance against strong winds and heavy rainfall, reducing crop loss.

On-Field Demonstration for Farmers

A live demonstration of this method was recently conducted on the field of farmer Pratik Jain in Daman Khamaria village, Shahpura block. The session was attended by Deputy Director Agriculture, Dr. S.K. Nigam, and Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer Patan, Dr. Indira Tripathi. During the event, officials explained the benefits of the ridge furrow technique and encouraged farmers to adopt it.

The Agriculture Department is actively conducting awareness programs and field training demos to help farmers understand and implement this method effectively.

Agriculture Department’s Message to Farmers

The department has emphasized that farmers need to shift to cost-effective and productive techniques due to changing climate patterns, water shortages, and rising costs. The Ridge Furrow Method is simple, economical, and suitable not just for maize, but also for crops like soybean and paddy. By adopting this method, farmers can reduce expenses, manage water better, and increase their crop output significantly.

Also Read: Scientists Develop Advanced Sowing Machine to Make Farming Easier and More Profitable

CMV360 Says

The Ridge Furrow Method is a smart and sustainable way to grow maize. It saves water, increases yield, and ensures better plant growth even in harsh weather. With support from the Agriculture Department, more farmers are expected to benefit from this method and improve their farming income.