Assessment of Physico-chemical Properties on Soil of Vizianagaram District, Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract

The study was conducted at Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences’ Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Lab. A total of 27 samples were collected from 3 blocks (Pusapatirega, Denkada and Bhogapuram), 9 villages, and analysed for physico-chemical properties using standard laboratory at varying depths (0-15, 15-30, and 30-45 cm). The soil colour ranged from yellowish red to yellowish brown (dry) and reddish brown to yellowish-brown (wet). It had a red sandy loam texture. Bulk density 1.402 (Mg m-3), Particle density 2.603(Mg m-3), Pore space 43.44(%), Water Holding Capacity 40.23(%), Specific gravity 2.42, pH 7.63 neutral, Electrical Conductivity 0.25 (dS m-1) non- saline, and Soil Organic Carbon 0.37(%). Available Nitrogen 269.88(kg ha-1) is low, Available Phosphorous and Available Potassium 17.34 and 191.09 (kg ha-1) are medium. Exchangeable Calcium 4.63 (cmol kg-1) and Exchangeable Magnesium 1.91 (cmol kg-1) medium to high. Farmers need to maintain a soil health card, adopt proper management techniques, and provide adequate nutrients to the soil in order to overcome pollution.