Farmers' method for enhancing humus yield through the production of compost extracts
In the picturesque northwest of Bavaria, the Hennig family, consisting of Egid and Jonas, run a nursery that stands out for its innovative and eco-friendly farming methods. One of their key practices is the use of composting to enrich their field crops and promote soil health.
Jonas Henning, the farming pioneer of the family, turns the compost material daily using a compost turner. This diligent process is part of a composting cycle that takes 8 to 12 weeks and is labor-intensive, but it's a crucial step in creating a fungi-rich, nutrient-rich substrate.
The Hennigs monitor various factors during the composting process, including temperature, moisture, and CO2 content. The ideal moisture level should be between 50 to 60 percent, while the CO2 content must not exceed 15 to 20 percent. The temperature must also remain under control, not exceeding 67 °C.
The composting process results in an extract that the Hennigs use to help replace chemical fertilizers and build up more humus. They also process their own organic fertilizers, using rock meal and plant charcoal to reduce smell and make it plant-friendly.
The Hennigs are committed to maintaining a balance of soil physics, chemistry, and biology. They rely on soil analysis, micronutrient examination, cation exchange capacity, and leaf analyses during the vegetation to ensure this balance.
In addition to their composting practices, the Hennigs use fixed wheel tracks and expanded crop rotation to minimise soil erosion and promote biodiversity. They also compost the manure of their 300 free-range pigs using the hot composting method at the field edge.
Jonas Henning has attended composting training courses with compost pioneer Urs Hildebrandt, further honing his skills in this area. However, the name of the US expert who checked the quality of the Hennig family's compost is not mentioned in the provided search results.
The Hennigs pay great attention to soil-friendly tire pressure and tire pressure control system on the tractor, ensuring minimal disturbance to the soil structure. They also use the Horizon drill, equipped with its own liquid tank for applying compost extract, to further optimise their farming practices.
The Hennigs' farming practices are a testament to their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly farming. Their innovative methods are not only beneficial for their crops but also for the environment, setting an example for other farmers to follow.
