PRESENT STATUS OF BIOFERTILIZER USAGE AND PROSPECTS OF BIOFERTILIZER MARKETING AMONG SMALL ORGANIC TEA GROWERS (A CASE STUDY IN GAMPOLA)

Abstract

Bio-fertilizer is a large population of a specific or a group of beneficial microorganisms which enhance the soil productivity. Biofertilizer usage is mainly concentrated on organic tea cultivation in Sri Lanka. The objectives of the study were; to examine the present status of biofertilizer usage among small organic tea growers; to ascertain their attitudes, to analyze constraints of promoting biofertilizer; and to make recommendations to mprove the biofertilizer marketing. The study was conducted through a field survey and informal discussions. 75% of small organic tea growers use commercially produced biofertilizers. Biofertilizer users obtain a significant higher yield than non-users of bio-fertilizer. The growers showed significant positive perception on the yielding ability, ability to enhance soil fertility, less environment pollution caused by biofertilizers. Lack of subsidies, government support, information and knowledge are the main constraints of promoting biofertilizers. Policy issues on biofertilizer subsidies, workshops, awareness programmes and field demonstrations, financial support for producers from the government can be recommended to improve the biofertilizer marketing among small organic tea growers.

For full paper: fmscresearch@sjp.ac.lk