Protecting nature: A farmer’s journey from burning to plowing

"When farmers protect nature, nature will protect us."

Kongsuk Buaban, a maize farmer in the Khlong Hat District in Sa Kaeo Province

A legacy of traditional farming methods

Kongsuk first started maize farming at 16 years old, following the footsteps of his parents. Now at 50 years old, he has expanded from renting only 1.76 hectares of land to managing around 50 hectares of land.

Field burning, also known as agricultural burning, is a traditional practice used by farmers to clear crop residues after harvest and prepare for the next growing season. Kongsuk adopted this practice when he began cultivating maize as a teenager. However, over time, he began to observe its detrimental effects. The repeated burning degraded the soil, leading to acidification and compaction, which reduced its fertility and long-term productivity. Additionally, the process released greenhouse gases and harmful pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to environmental damage.

A new approach, from burning to plowing

Agronomists from Yara Thailand engaged with Kongsuk to share insights on soil health and sustainable farming practices. They introduced him to techniques for restoring and maintaining the vitality of his fields.

Improving soil health – the foundation for resilient crop production and sustainable farming – is essential for food security but also for the well-being of our planet.

This conversation marked a turning point for Kongsuk. He reconsidered his approach and decided to stop burning crop residues. Instead, he began plowing the topsoil after harvest, allowing organic matter to remain and enrich the soil naturally. Kongsuk typically grows two maize crops per year, each taking about four months from planting to harvest. Now, after harvesting, he uses a tractor to gently turn the soil without causing acidification. The remaining nutrients and plant residues decompose over two months, naturally loosening the soil and preparing it for the next planting cycle.

Yara Thailand's guidance and expertise

Yara Thailand agronomists supported Kongsuk every step of the way. By conducting detailed soil analysis, they discovered that his fields required less fertilizer than previously used. This not only reduced input costs but also minimized excess nutrient runoff, helping protect the surrounding environment and optimize nutrient management.

After applying this method for two to three years, Kongsuk began to see remarkable improvements in crop yield and quality, “The results are that I was able to reduce the cost of growing maize without even realizing it. The maize is larger, weightier, with full grains that are arranged beautifully. One hectare can harvest about 11.25 to 12.5 tonnes, which is incredible.”

Although plowing the topsoil already helps to prepare the soil, Kongsuk continues to nourish his crops with tailored crop nutrition. With guidance from Yara's agronomists, he now applies crop nutrition solutions tailored to the unique needs of his maize, ensuring optimal growth and long-term soil health.

Sowing the seeds of change

Kongsuk Buaban's journey from traditional field burning to sustainable farming practices highlights the transformative power of knowledge and innovation in agriculture. His experience serves as an inspiring reminder of how farmers, when equipped with the right knowledge and support, can become true stewards of the land, ensuring that nature will continue to sustain and protect us all.