Organic Mandya: Multi-Cropping and Manual Sapling Planting Guide
Introduction
At Organic Mandya, farming is more than just planting seeds—it is about planning, precision, and working with nature. Recently, our trainees were excited to plant the saplings and seeds they purchased from the nursery. However, as Mr. Madhuchandan emphasized, proper planting techniques and spacing are essential for healthy growth and maximum yield.
“You can’t just plant anywhere. To grow well, plants need structure, care, and the right companions,” explains Mr. Madhuchandan.
Even without electricity to operate the drip irrigation system, the trainees learned to water the plants manually while practicing multi-cropping techniques, ensuring each sapling thrives.
Step-by-Step Planting and Multi-Cropping
1. Preparing the Bed
The trainees prepared the first bed with around 3,600 saplings, including tomatoes, chili, long eggplant, bottle gourd, coriander, and radish. Each bed is carefully designed to maximize space and minimize competition among plants.
2. Planting Tomatoes in the Center
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Tomatoes were planted one to two feet apart in the center of the bed.
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A straight stick was used to mark each spot to ensure uniformity.
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Poles were added to support tall tomato plants.
“Plant the tomato seeds first, then water immediately. Watering before sowing can disrupt seed placement,” Mr. Madhuchandan advised.
3. Adding Leafy Greens
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Instead of spinach, coriander was chosen for its higher value and growth compatibility.
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Lines were marked every foot for even planting.
4. Planting Root Vegetables
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Radishes were planted along the sides, ensuring proper spacing to avoid competition from deep roots.
5. Companion and Trap Crops
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Marigolds were planted 5–6 feet apart to attract pests away from main crops.
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Mustard plants were used as additional deceptive crops, protecting the main harvest naturally.
6. Soil Care and Watering
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Soil was gently added to cover seeds, preventing overcrowding.
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Manual watering ensured proper moisture, compensating for the lack of electricity for drip irrigation.
Key Lessons and Tips
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Correct spacing prevents overcrowding and promotes healthy root development.
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Companion planting with marigolds and mustard reduces pest attacks naturally.
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Multi-cropping spreads risk by staggering harvests, ensuring continuous income.
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Manual watering works effectively with proper planning and care.
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Teamwork makes planting faster and more efficient.
“By the end of the day, the trainees had planted thousands of saplings and left with more than 100 questions — curiosity is the first step toward mastery,” says Mr. Madhuchandan.
Final Thoughts
The planting session at Organic Mandya demonstrated that sustainable farming is about understanding crop needs, careful planning, and practicing eco-friendly techniques. Multi-cropping, companion planting, and staggered harvests help small farmers maximize yield, reduce pests, and maintain consistent income.
“When you plan carefully and work with nature, farming becomes simple, rewarding, and sustainable,” concludes Mr. Madhuchandan.
