Introduction
Jeevamrutham is a natural, eco-friendly, and affordable fertiliser that improves soil health and plant growth. Based on traditional Indian farming practices, it provides essential nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, and calcium while boosting beneficial microbes in the soil. Known as the “elixir of life” for soil, Jeevamrutham is a great alternative to chemical fertilisers, helping farmers grow healthy crops and promote sustainable farming.
Definition of Jeevamrutham
Jeevamrutham is a natural, liquid fertiliser made from desi cow dung, desi cow urine, water, jaggery, besan flour, and fertile soil mix. Jeevamrutham, which translates as "life nectar," is a fermented bio-inoculant rich in beneficial bacteria.
Historical Context and Origin:
Jeevamrutham has its roots in the ancient Indian practice of "Vedic Farming," which prioritises the use of natural resources to maintain soil fertility. Farmers have used Jeevamrutham for centuries to improve soil productivity and protect the environment.
Significance of the Name:
Jeevamrutham is derived from two Sanskrit words: "Jeeva," meaning living being, and "Amrutham," meaning elixir or life-extending medicine. In agriculture, Jeevamrutham symbolizes a life-giving tonic for crops, enhancing their growth and vitality.
Benefits of Using Jeevamrutham
- Improves Soil Health: Increases beneficial bacteria that enhance soil structure and aeration, creating an ideal environment for plant roots.
- Promotes Microbial Activity: Enriches soil with microorganisms that release nutrients and break down organic matter.
- Increases Plant Growth: Provides essential nutrients that promote vigorous plant development.
- Enhances Crop Quality and Yield: Leads to healthier crops with higher yields by improving soil fertility.
- Reduces Dependency on Chemical Fertilisers: Provides a natural nutrient source, eliminating the need for harmful chemicals.
- Improves Pest Resistance: Creates a diverse microbial environment, reducing pest and disease susceptibility.
- Helps Plants Cope with Stress: Supports plants in withstanding heat, drought, and frost.
- Promotes Flowering and Fruiting: Encourages vigorous blooming and fruiting for higher productivity.
- Environmentally Friendly: Prevents chemical leaching into soil and waterways, contributing to a healthier ecosystem.
- Cost-Effective: Uses inexpensive, readily available ingredients, making it accessible to farmers and gardeners.
Ingredients of Jeevamrutham and Their Benefits
- Cow Dung: Provides organic matter and beneficial microbes, improving soil texture and water retention.
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Cow Urine: Rich in nitrogen and potassium, stimulates root growth and nutrient absorption.
- Jaggery: Acts as food for beneficial microbes, promoting their proliferation.
- Gram Flour: Supplies phosphorus and potassium, essential for flowering and fruiting.
- Water: Acts as a carrier, ensuring the nutrients are evenly distributed in the soil.
How to Prepare Jeevamrutham
To prepare Jeevamrutham, start by taking a large plastic barrel and adding cow dung, cow urine, jaggery, gram flour, and soil. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure there are no clumps. Stir the mixture 30 times clockwise and 30 times anticlockwise twice daily using a wooden log. Cover the barrel with a sack, allowing gases such as carbon dioxide, ammonia, methane, and carbon monoxide, produced during fermentation, to escape. During summer, the mixture will be ready to use in 2 days, while in winter, it requires 3 days. This simple process creates a powerful bio-fertiliser that enriches soil fertility and supports sustainable plant growth.
Application of Jeevamrutham in Farming
- Soil Application: Dilute with water in a ratio of 1:10 and apply around the base of plants or through irrigation.
- Foliar Spray: Dilute and spray on plant leaves for quick absorption.
- Seed Treatment: Soak seeds in Jeevamrutham before planting to improve germination.
Frequency of Use:
- Apply every 7–10 days during early plant stages and reduce to every 15–20 days as plants mature.
Avoid Overuse: While Jeevamrutham is a natural fertiliser, it’s important not to over apply it. Excessive use can lead to nutrient imbalances and may negatively impact plant health.
Comparison of Jeevamrutham with Other Similar Fertiliser
Jeevamrutham vs. Compost
Compost is a popular organic fertiliser made from decomposed organic matter. It provides essential nutrients to plants. However, it takes time to break down and release those nutrients into the soil. In contrast, Jeevamrutham is a liquid fertiliser that is quickly absorbed by plants, delivering an instant nutrient boost. Furthermore, Jeevamrutham contains beneficial microorganisms that enhance soil health and promote microbial activity, which compost may lack. Together, these attributes make Jeevamrutham a faster and more effective solution for improving plant growth and soil fertility.
Jeevamrutham vs. Chemical Fertilisers
Chemical fertilisers are commonly used for their fast results, but they have significant drawbacks. Over time, they can degrade soil structure, pollute water sources, and harm beneficial organisms critical to maintaining a healthy ecosystem. In contrast, Jeevamrutham is an organic fertiliser that is completely safe for the environment. It nourishes the soil naturally, enhances its fertility, and supports a balanced ecosystem. By promoting sustainable farming practices, Jeevamrutham offers a healthier and eco-friendly alternative to chemical fertilisers, ensuring long-term agricultural productivity.
Common Mistakes in Preparing Jeevamrutham
Some common mistakes when preparing Jeevamrutham include using incorrect ingredients, improper dilution, and incorrect storage practices. For ingredients, it's important to use dung from native cows, soil that matches local conditions, and raw jaggery instead of processed varieties. Incorrect dilution, such as failing to mix Jeevamrutham with water in the correct ratio, can affect its effectiveness. Additionally, improper storage, like exposing the mixture to direct sunlight, failing to keep it in the shade, or storing it for too long, can reduce its potency. Paying attention to these details ensures the best results when using Jeevamrutham.
Ideal Plants to Maximise Jeevamrutham Benefits
Jeevamrutham is highly beneficial for a wide range of plants, including vegetables, fruits, orchids, indoor, and flowering plants.
Vegetable Plants:
- Tomatoes, Brinjal, Chilli, Cabbage, and Spinach: Promotes faster growth, better fruiting, and stronger immunity against pests and diseases.
- Root Vegetables (Carrots, Radish, Potatoes): Enhances root development and soil aeration for healthy yields.
Fruit Plants:
- Mango, Guava, Banana, Pomegranate, Papaya: Improves flowering, fruit quality, and overall yields by increasing soil fertility.
- Citrus Plants (Lemon, Orange): Boosts growth and helps manage stress from drought or heat.
Orchids:
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Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium, and Vanda Orchids: Strengthens roots, enhances flowering, and improves resistance to fungal infections.
Indoor Plants:
- Money Plant, Peace Lily, Snake Plant, Spider Plant: Encourages lush foliage and improves resilience in low-light conditions.
- Bonsai Plants: Enhances root strength and keeps the soil rich in nutrients.
Flowering Plants:
- Roses, Hibiscus, Marigolds, Jasmine, Petunias: Increases flower production, improves bloom size, and enhances fragrance.
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Climbers (Bougainvillea, Morning Glory): Supports vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
Success Stories
Jeevamrutham has become a trusted solution for gardeners and farmers seeking sustainable growth methods. Here are some inspiring success stories from individuals who have experienced its transformative effects:
Flourishing Growth by Sanjeev Kumar in Haryana:
Sanjeev Kumar from Haryana shared that within just two months of using Jeevamrutham, their Mango plant exhibited remarkable improvements. The leaves grew larger and greener, and the plants appeared significantly healthier. Sanjeev emphasized how Jeevamrutham enriched their soil and became an essential part of their gardening journey.
Lush Terrace Garden by Bishwajyoti Roy in Kolkata:
Bishwajyoti Roy, a passionate gardener from Kolkata, credited Jeevamrutham for the success of their thriving terrace garden. Bishwajyoti proudly shared an image of their lush plant, showcasing the vibrant growth achieved through regular use of Jeevamrutham. They highlighted its role in improving soil fertility and supporting consistent plant health, making it a must-have for urban gardeners.
Wide-Scale Success Among Indian Farmers:
Abhishek Natekar from Maharashtra and Souvik Ghosh from Uttar Pradesh have seen excellent plants after using Jeevamrutham. They shared that it helps make plants stronger, reduces the need for chemical fertilisers, and improves soil health, making farming healthier and more sustainable.
Conclusion:
Jeevamrutham is a game-changing organic fertiliser that enhances soil fertility, boosts crop yields, and supports sustainable farming. Whether you’re a home gardener or a farmer, adopting Jeevamrutham can lead to healthier plants and a thriving environment. Experience the benefits of this traditional Indian farming practice and transform your garden or farm.
FAQs about Jeevamrutham
What is Jeevamrutham?
A natural, liquid bio-fertiliser made from cow dung, cow urine, jaggery, gram flour, and soil.
Is Jeevamrutham organic?
Yes, Jeevamrutham is 100% organic and eco-friendly.
How is Jeevamrutham different from compost?
Jeevamrutham provides instant nutrients and boosts microbial activity, while compost takes time to decompose.
Can Jeevamrutham replace chemical fertilisers?
Yes, it is an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative.
How do I prepare Jeevamrutham?
Mix ingredients, stir daily, and ferment for 2–3 days.
How is Jeevamrutham applied?
Use as soil application, foliar spray, or seed treatment.
How often should I use Jeevamrutham?
Every 7–10 days for young plants and every 15–20 days for mature plants.
What are the benefits of Jeevamrutham?
Improves soil, boosts immunity, enhances yield, and reduces chemical use.
What mistakes should I avoid when preparing Jeevamrutham?
Use native cow dung, raw jaggery, correct dilution, and store properly.
Can Jeevamrutham be used for all plants?
Yes, it works for vegetables, fruits, flowers, and more.
Why is Jeevamrutham called the "elixir of life"?
It rejuvenates soil and plants, supporting sustainable growth.
How does Jeevamrutham look?
It has a dark, slurry-like appearance with a slightly fermented smell.
Can I store Jeevamrutham?
Yes, Jeevamrutham can be stored for up to 6 months if kept in a cool, shaded area to maintain its effectiveness.