Sunflower Power!
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Solution to Soil Zinc Deficiency in Nepal
The following three steps outlines a brief implementation plan for improving soil zinc levels in Nepal.
PLANNING
The organic sunflower seeds will be sold and distributed by the Canadian company, the Cottage Country Gardener. From there the seeds will travel to Nepal. The organic sunflower seeds will go from the Cottage Country Gardener, to Toronto Pearson airport, to Ohio airport, to Kathmandu international airport. Once in Nepal the organic sunflower seeds will be distributed by NFC Seed Co. Pvt. Ltd, Nepal Agro Sales and Services and my local markets.
Once Nepal farmers purchase their seeds they can then be planted. Sunflower seeds require a temperature of 6 degrees to germinate, but optimal growth temperature is between 16-26 degrees. The approximate growing season for sunflower seeds is 120 days. After this, the seeds can be harvested, and the shoots and leaves can be returned to the earth and allowed to decompose, thus releasing zinc and other nutrients to the soil to improve fertility.
STRATEGY
RESULTS
If Nepalese farmers pursue planting the organic sunflower seeds, they will see increased soil zinc levels and soil fertility, as well as a build up of crop residue and organic matter that will reduce soil erosion. Nepalese farmers will receive increased yields and profits, as well as be able to eat the sunflower seeds or sell them the neighboring countries for profit.
Picture reference: http://nepalmountainlodge.com/images/gokyo.jpg