In the 1970s, Soviet collective farms broke records for cucumber yields using a method that agricultural firms are silent about today.
The secret lies in fish feed - a cheap and effective method that has replaced expensive fertilizers.
Biologist Andrey Sokolov , author of the book "Organic Farming Without Myths", explains: "Fish waste contains phosphorus, calcium and amino acids, which stimulate the division of fruit cells. Calcium strengthens the roots, and phosphorus accelerates flowering."
The technology is simple: bury 2-3 heads of herring under each bush or mix 500 g of fish scraps with 10 liters of water. Infuse the mixture for 7-10 days, then dilute with water 1:5 and water once every two weeks.
However, the method has its nuances.
Organic agronomist Maria Vorontsova warns: "Fatty fish (mackerel, saury) acidify the soil and attract pests. Use lean varieties - pollock, cod or river fish."
This method is also not suitable for closed soil: the aroma attracts cats that dig up the beds, and rodents. For open soil, this is not a problem - the smell disappears within a day.
Summer resident Lidiya from Ryazan shared her experience: "I buried sprats under cucumbers - I collected 20 kg from a bush! But the smell in the greenhouse was so strong that I had to air it out for days."
To avoid nutrient imbalance, add nettle infusion (1 kg per 10 l of water) a week after fish feeding. Nitrogen from nettle will compensate for the phosphorus-calcium “blow” and prevent yellowing of leaves.
A study in the journal Modern Horticulture (2023) confirmed that too much fish in the soil leads to the accumulation of heavy metals. The safe dose is no more than 300 g per bush per season.
Alternatives for those who are bothered by the smell:
- Bone meal (100 g per bush) - contains phosphorus in an easily digestible form.
- Banana peel - 3 pieces per 10 liters of water. Potassium in the composition increases the juiciness of the fruit.
For maximum effect, combine feeding with proper care:
- Form the bushes into one stem - this reduces competition for food.
- Mulch the beds with straw - it retains moisture and prevents the roots from overheating.
- Pick cucumbers every 2-3 days - this will stimulate the formation of new ovaries.
Why was the method banned?
In the 1980s, fish feeding ceased to be used in collective farms due to its labor intensity. But enthusiastic summer residents have preserved the tradition. Today, scientists admit that this is one of the most environmentally friendly ways to increase crop yields without chemicals.
