Protected cultivation is a new technique in the current context. But because of the high expense of this new technology, it is difficult for farmers to explore and apply it. This kind of farming involves the construction of greenhouses or poly houses which requires huge investments. With bamboo, this modern technology can be turned into a cost-effective and environment-friendly option for farmers. Bamboo can be used as a substitute for GI pipes in the construction of frames and supports.
Bamboo is a simple and easier plant to grow. The wood is very strong and has high compression strength. The grass can tolerate strong winds and earthquakes. Along with these, the self-regenerating natural source has many considerable benefits. The multipurpose plant can be used in making furniture, fences, construction materials, etc. Bamboo agroforestry requires only a modest capital investment and generates steady income for the farmers.
Why choose bamboo?
Bamboo is a versatile grass as can be grown in a variety of soil and climatic conditions.
The demand for bamboo is high.
Bamboo can be harvested every year and provide regular returns.
Harvesting of bamboo can be staggered.
Some of the commercially used bamboos across India are-
· Bamboo balcooa
· Bambusa bambos
· Bambusa nutans
· Bambusa pallida
· Bambusa polymorpha
· Bamusa tulda
· Bambusa vulgaris
· Dendrocalamus brandisii
Propagation Techniques –
Seed Propagation-
The method of planting bamboo using seeds has serious limitations due to unreliable seeds availability. For example, Indosasa sp. has only 5-10% viable seeds.
Macro Propagation –
Propagation methods are mostly practised for the cultivation of bamboo. Traditionally, propagation by rhizome cutting is mostly preferred by the local farmers. The rhizomes cut of length 30-35 cm long needs to be planted 30 cm deep.
Another way of propagation is by culm cuttings. Culm planting material of 1-2 years old, after or before cut produce new shoots. Propagation through branch cutting with high survival rate is also possible using growth regulators such as NAA, 2, 4-D.
Micro Propagation-
This method involves using of different plant parts as the planting materials. The planting materials may consists of stems, shoot tips, nodes, root tips, callus and single cells.