Results from 24 years of research by the Agronomic Institute (IAC-APTA) on conservation agriculture and direct planting of peanuts in the straw of the previous crop reveal notable benefits. This technique not only reduces production costs by up to 20% and soil erosion by 90% but also addresses various other challenges.
Direct planting in straw offers advantages such as decreased pest and disease infestation, erosion, and aflatoxin, preventing grain consumption issues. It enhances tolerance to drought and climatic adversities while promoting the preservation of soil organic matter. Beyond these gains, the method facilitates certifications and land leasing. IAC researcher Denizart Bolonhezi will delve into these aspects during the Peanut Planting in Straw Field Day on February 21st in Tambaú, São Paulo.
Bolonhezi highlights that the 10-20% reduction in production costs results from lower diesel consumption during planting operations. The phytosanitary benefits include decreased pest, system's impact on vector dispersion can also reduce the incidence of diseases like early blight.
Sowing in straw becomes a crucial element in soil conservation, as it curtails soil losses by 90%. Bolonhezi emphasizes that without straw, 5.0 kg of land would be lost through erosion and water retention, promoting microorganism activity.
Bolonhezi underlines the importance of straw in meeting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards, benefiting certifications and decarbonization credits for peanut exports. The straw-induced reduction in drought effects diminishes aflatoxin, crucial for maintaining peanut quality and export viability.
In summary, direct planting in straw proves to be a comprehensive approach, addressing production costs, soil conservation, phytosanitary concerns, and international standards, making it a sustainable and efficient method for peanut cultivation.
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