Abstract

On Bailu lands, second crop of paddy is followed by a pulse crop or by a third crop of paddy. Artificial manures are unknown in this village, as in very many other parts. Loose-box manures and burnt earth, excreta of fowls mixed with ash are the only principal manures. Burnt earth is made as follows:-Green branches of trees which are felled for fuel purposes are brought and heaped up here and there in the field. When this is completely dried up in the hot season, a layer of earth of about a foot high is spread over it. Over this layer dried branches are again put to form another layer. Thus a mound about 6 feet high of alternate layer of earth and dried branches is formed. This is then set fire to and the whole mound gradually falls to ashes and burnt earth is obtained in a few days. This important manure is spread over the field in baskets just before the rainy season commences.

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