Various experiments were done on the adaptability of Azolla in Himalayan region. Under various conditions its growth and other parameters were observed. These are as follows:
Two pits were made in which Azolla were planted in the month of October. Both the pits were kept under different condition. One was exposed to direct sunlight and other was kept under the shade of the tree. After few days there was a rapid increase in the growth of Azolla for both conditions. In the case of direct sunlight, due to high temperature the green colour of Azolla were faded into light brown. Lush greenery was observed in the colour of the Azolla planted in shade. After few days when the intensity of sun decreased vice-versa was observed. Azolla under direct sunlight retains its green texture while leaves of Azolla under shade starts fading from green to light brown in colour. Also growth of Azolla were little slower in Winter season for both the case. From the above observation it was concluded that within a month Azolla can adapt environmental conditions without much hindering its growth. It was concluded if moderate sunlight is available throughout the day, the growth rate can be enhanced.
In this case Azolla were planted in rectangular tray. In the morning time the tray were kept outside under direct sunlight and at night it were kept inside room. Growths of the Azolla were found to be satisfactory and no fading of leaves were observed. From this it was concluded that growth of Azolla are generally affected due to very low and high temperature. Direct sunlight in day and under room temperature at night are most favourable condition for the growth of Azolla.
In our third experiment we tried to grow azolla without adding single super phosphate and with a proper replacement for the product.
(i) Azolla with river water:Phosphorus occurs naturally in rocks and other mineral deposits. During the natural process of weathering, the rocks gradually release the phosphorus as phosphate ions which are soluble in water and the mineralize phosphate compounds breakdown.Firstly we tried to grow Azolla with river water and soil because it’s naturally rich in phosphorous. Water is taken from Uhl River and a small water channel.
(ii)Azolla with vermicompost:To overcome the dependency of Azolla on SSP we have tried to grow azolla with vermicompost which is easily available to farmers and also it doesn’t smell as bad as cow dung.
We also tried to grow rice with Azolla and without Azolla in a pot. The rice with Azolla was growing better and green than the rice without Azolla.
Department of Science and Technology under CSTRI Scheme.
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IIT Mandi
Mandi, (H.P.)-175005
