Introduction
Starting organic farming is a smart decision for farmers who want to protect soil health and earn stable income over time. Organic farming avoids chemical fertilizers and pesticides and depends on natural inputs.
One big advantage of organic farming is the ability to grow multiple crops together safely. For example, growing spinach and okra on the same farm allows farmers to earn quick income from spinach and long-term income from okra.
This guide explains how to start organic farming step by step in simple language. It is suitable for beginners as well as farmers shifting from chemical farming.
Overview of Spinach and Okra Crops
Spinach is a fast-growing leafy vegetable that grows well in cool to mild weather. It is ready for the first harvest within 25 to 30 days and gives multiple cuttings.
Okra is a warm-season vegetable crop. It starts producing pods after 45 to 50 days and continues yielding for several months.
When starting organic farming, this crop combination is very useful. Spinach provides early cash flow, while okra gives continuous income during the season.
Soil Requirement and Land Suitability
Soil health is the foundation of organic farming. Spinach and okra both grow well in fertile, well-drained sandy loam soil.
Soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is suitable. If soil fertility is low, organic inputs should be added before planting.
Adding compost, farmyard manure, and crop residues improves soil structure and water holding capacity naturally.
Farm Layout and Crop Planning on One Farm
Proper farm planning is important when starting organic farming. Divide the land into blocks for different crops.
Spinach can be grown in slightly shaded or cooler areas. Okra should be planted in areas receiving full sunlight.
Crop rotation and mixed cropping help reduce pests and maintain soil nutrients. Planning saves labor, water, and cost.
Seed Selection and Varieties
Always use good quality untreated seeds for organic farming. If organic seeds are available, they are the best option.
For spinach, varieties like Pusa All Green, Banarasi, and local desi types are suitable. For okra, Arka Anamika and Pusa Bhindi-5 perform well.
Seed treatment with neem solution or cow urine improves germination and protects young plants naturally.
Land Preparation
Land preparation in organic farming focuses on protecting soil life. Deep plowing should be avoided unless needed.
Two light plowings followed by leveling are enough. Mix well-decomposed compost or farmyard manure into the soil.
Green manure crops can also be grown and mixed into the soil to improve fertility before planting.
Planting Method and Spacing
Spinach seeds are directly sown in lines. A row spacing of around 20 cm is ideal.
Okra requires wider spacing of 45 to 60 cm between plants to allow proper growth and air movement.
Correct spacing reduces disease risk and improves plant health. It also makes field operations easier.
Sunlight and Temperature Requirement
Spinach grows best in cool to mild temperatures and can tolerate partial shade. It needs around 4 to 5 hours of sunlight daily.
Okra requires warm weather and strong sunlight. It grows best with 6 to 8 hours of sunlight.
Choosing the right season for each crop is very important in organic farming.
Irrigation Management
Water management is critical when starting organic farming. Over-watering can damage roots and soil microbes.
Spinach needs light and frequent irrigation. Okra requires regular watering but should not be waterlogged.
Drip or furrow irrigation saves water. Mulching helps retain moisture and keeps soil cool.
Organic and Natural Pest Control Methods
Organic farming avoids chemical pesticides. Pest control is done using natural methods.
Neem oil spray every 7 to 10 days controls common pests. Garlic and soap solution helps against aphids and leaf-eating insects.
Regular field monitoring and removal of infected plants prevent pest spread naturally.
Expected Yield and Approximate Earnings
In the first year, yield may be slightly lower compared to chemical farming. Yield improves as soil health increases.
Organic spinach can produce around 6 to 8 tons per hectare. Organic okra can yield 12 to 15 tons per hectare.
Organic produce usually gets 10 to 20 percent higher price. Input costs are lower, improving overall profit.
Conclusion
Starting organic farming is a long-term investment for farmers. It improves soil fertility, reduces production costs, and protects health.
Growing crops like spinach and okra together provides balanced income and efficient land use. Healthy soil ensures stable yields year after year.
With proper planning, patience, and natural practices, organic farming becomes a profitable and sustainable system that benefits farmers and future generations.