Mustard Cake / Sarso Khali 500 GM

Mustard cake, or sarso khali, is an organic fertilizer derived from the residue of mustard oil extraction. Rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK), it provides essential nutrients for plant growth, boosts soil fertility, and can help deter pests. It is commonly used for flowering and vegetable plants. 

Benefits of mustard cake for plants

• Essential nutrients: Mustard cake is a good source of NPK, with a typical ratio of approximately 4-1-1. The high nitrogen content promotes healthy, vigorous growth, greener leaves, and increased flowering.
• Slow-release fertilizer: As an organic fertilizer, mustard cake releases nutrients gradually over time, providing a steady supply of food to your plants and reducing the risk of nutrient burn.
• Improves soil health: The organic matter in mustard cake enhances soil structure, aeration, and water retention. This creates a healthier environment for beneficial soil organisms and promotes stronger root development.
• Natural pest repellent: Mustard cake contains compounds with insecticidal and fungicidal properties that help suppress soil-borne pests like nematodes and aphids. 

How to use mustard cake

You can apply mustard cake to your plants in two primary ways:

Liquid fertilizer method 

1. Soak 100 grams (about 1 cup) of mustard cake powder in 1 liter of water inside a plastic bucket or earthen pot.
2. Mix it thoroughly and cover the container loosely. Let the mixture ferment for 2–4 days. It will develop a strong smell, which is normal.
3. Dilute the fermented solution with an equal amount of water before applying it to the base of your plants. Avoid spraying the solution directly on the leaves.
4. Apply this liquid fertilizer every 15–20 days, especially during the flowering and growing seasons. 

Dry application method 

• For potting mix: Mix a small amount of mustard cake powder into your potting soil along with other components like sand, cocopeat, or neem cake. Use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the mix.
• As a top dressing: Sprinkle a thin, even layer of mustard cake powder around the base of your plants, gently mixing it into the topsoil. Water the plants thoroughly after application.
• For vegetable and flower beds: Incorporate the powder into the soil at a rate of about 50 grams per square meter before planting.