Page 319 - Bahrain Gov annual reports(V)_Neat

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Manures
The soil in Bahrain, like most desert areas is low in fertility and deficient in Nitrogen
content and the use of artificial fertilizers and organic matter is essential to increase yields and
improve the quality of crops. The amount of animal manure available on the Island is limited
and to help farmers in this respect large quantities of artificial fertilizers specially produced for
conditions prevailing in Bahrain were imported from Holland for issue to farmers at 50 per cent
cost. From manurial trials carried out at Budeya it has been found that the artificials in con­
junction with organic fertilizers have given excellent results and it is hoped that local farmers
who are very conservative will make more use of artificial fertilizers in the coming season.

Mechanization
The Fordson Major Tractor which was presented to the Department by H.H. The Ruler
has been in continuous action for the past few months. This amenity has proved to be very
popular with growers and it is hoped that with the purchase of another machine it will be possible
to help more farmers with initial cultivation.

Plant Protection
The Experimental centre is now equipped with a comprehensive supply of chemicals and
equipment with which to combat attacks of pests and diseases. Although local farmers are
very conservative some of them are gradually coming to realise that modern methods of pest
control can help them appreciably and it is hoped in the coming season that more farmers will
take advantage of the free service provided by the Department.