Economic Analysis of Leonardite Applied to the Soils at Different Rates in Red Lentil Cultivation

It is very difficult for farmers to accept agricultural practices that do not have economic benefits and will create extra costs. However, it is very easy for the farmers to adopt the practices that improve the soil properties as well as increase the yield and make a profit if applied. In addition to the effect of organic soil conditioners applied to the soil on plant growth and soil properties, it is also very important whether there is an economic return or not. Leonardite is an organic soil conditioner used in soil remediation. This study was carried out to determine the economic return of the leonardite application to the soil at different rates in red lentil cultivation. This research was carried out in the province of Diyarbakir, where red lentils are widely grown in Turkey under rainfall conditions. In the study, the profitability of leonardite applications was determined, and for this purpose, partial budgeting technique was used in economic analysis. Leonardite material was applied at the same rates (0, 1000, 1500, 2000 and 2500 kg ha-1) for two consecutive years. It was conducted that highest gain was obtained from the dose of 1000 kg ha-1 rate in the second application season. It was also conducted that higher leonardite rates than 1000 kg ha-1 are not cost effective.