Unlocking Sustainable Sugarcane Farming with DDGS Compost

Dilip Patil , MD – Samarth SSK

Sugarcane farming is a vital agricultural activity in many regions, but it comes with significant challenges. Maintaining soil fertility, increasing crop yield, and managing production costs are just a few of the obstacles farmers face. However, a promising solution has emerged in the form of DDGS compost, a highly effective organic fertilizer made from Dried Distillers Grains with Solubles, a waste product generated from grain-based distilleries producing ethanol from maize.

The Benefits of DDGS Compost

DDGS compost offers a multitude of benefits for sugarcane farming. By mixing DDGS with composting culture, Trichoderma viride, and silica culture, farmers can create a nutrient-rich compost that enhances soil health, boosts sugarcane yield, and reduces dependency on chemical fertilizers.

The use of DDGS compost has been shown to improve soil structure, increase the organic carbon content of the soil, and promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms. This, in turn, leads to healthier and more productive sugarcane plants, with some farmers reporting yields of up to 118 tons per acre.

Environmental Sustainability

In addition to its benefits for sugarcane farming, DDGS compost also offers a more environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional fertilization methods. By reducing the need for chemical fertilizers, DDGS compost helps to minimize the risk of soil and water pollution, promoting a healthier and more sustainable farming ecosystem.

A Cost-Effective Solution

DDGS compost is not only a sustainable solution but also a cost-effective one. With its ability to improve soil health and boost sugarcane yield, DDGS compost can help farmers reduce their production costs and increase their profitability.

Making DDGS Compost: A Step-by-Step Guide

To create high-quality DDGS compost, farmers can follow these simple steps:

Ingredients:

• 1 ton of Dried Distillers Grains with Solubles (DDGS)
• 1 liter of composting culture
• 1 liter of Trichoderma viride
• 1 liter of silica culture

Instructions:

1. Mixing the Ingredients: Combine the DDGS with the composting culture, Trichoderma viride, and silica culture in a large mixing area.
2. Forming the Compost Pile: Pile the mixture into a heap, ensuring it is 3-4 feet high. This height helps maintain the internal temperature necessary for decomposition.
3. Maintaining Moisture: The compost pile should have a moisture content of 50-60%. If the pile feels dry, add water periodically to keep it moist but not waterlogged.
4. Aeration: Turn the pile every 3-4 days to ensure proper aeration. This step prevents the pile from becoming anaerobic, which can lead to foul odors and slow decomposition.
5. Compost Maturation: The composting process typically takes 45-60 days. During this time, the pile will undergo microbial activity, breaking down the organic matter into a dark brown, crumbly material with an earthy smell.

Application of DDGS Compost in Sugarcane Fields

Once the compost is fully decomposed and resembles rich soil, it is ready for application in sugarcane fields. Farmers can apply 10-12 tons of DDGS compost per acre at the time of planting sugarcane. This ensures that the young plants have access to essential nutrients from the beginning of their growth cycle.

Best Practices for Using DDGS Compost

To get the most out of DDGS compost, farmers should follow these best practices:

• Soil Testing: Conduct regular soil tests to determine the nutrient content and pH level of the soil.
• Proper Application Rates: Avoid over-application of compost, as excessive nutrients can lead to imbalances and harm the crop.
• Moisture and Aeration Management: Ensure the compost pile remains moist and well-aerated during the composting process.
• Integration with Other Organic Practices: Combine DDGS compost with other organic farming practices, such as crop rotation and cover cropping, to create a holistic and sustainable farming system.

Conclusion

DDGS compost is a valuable resource for farmers, particularly those with grain-based distilleries nearby. By utilizing this waste product, farmers can create a nutrient-rich compost that enhances soil health, boosts sugarcane yield, and reduces dependency on chemical fertilizers. With its numerous benefits for sugarcane farming and the environment, DDGS compost is a sustainable and cost-effective solution for farmers looking to improve their productivity and profitability.

The Author Dilip Patil is Managing Director of Karmyogi Ankushrao Tope Samarth Co-op Sugar Factory, Ambad -Jalna.