Abstract
This review discusses about laboratory soil analysis and soil mineral management in different Organic farming. The objective of this review were laboratory mineral soil analysis and soil mineral management in organic farming was to draw together all the available relevant research findings in order to develop the knowledge and expertise of organic advisers and thereby to improve soil management practice on organic farms. There are several methods available for measuring total N in soils, mineral N in soils and mineralization potential. Chemical extractions which aim to establish the pool of nitrogen to plants include the use of potassium salts, K<sub>2</sub>SO<sub>4</sub> to extract inorganic and labile organic N pools. Soil P tests are commonly used to assess soil nutrient availability and to assist in fertilizer recommendations. Available K measured by ammonium nitrate gave a good indication of the plant available K in soil; crops showed a response to increasing available K and continued cropping caused a decline in the pool of available K in soil. Soil analysis based on chemical analysis is a snapshot of nutrient pools. It is normally reported in mg/l of soil. Soils are sampled and analysed and digital maps provided to the farmer. This then allows targeted use of inputs to correct nutrient deficiencies or acidity. While this is primarily used in conventional farming for fertiliser application it is now also being used increasingly in organic farming.
Highlights
The capacity to improve the fertility of a given soil through management was inextricably linked to the inherent properties of that site-soil texture, mineralogy, slope and climate
It is important to have a good understanding of the inherent properties of any site when farming organically as the scope for using agrochemicals to overcome short-term problems was severely restricted compared with conventional systems
Chemical extractions which aim to establish the pool of nitrogen to plants include the use of potassium salts e.g. KCl or K2SO4 to extract inorganic and labile organic N pools
Summary
The capacity to improve the fertility of a given soil through management was inextricably linked to the inherent properties of that site-soil texture, mineralogy, slope and climate. It is important to have a good understanding of the inherent properties of any site when farming organically as the scope for using agrochemicals to overcome short-term problems was severely restricted compared with conventional systems. In this respect maintaining good soil structure was paramount in organic production. Compaction, for example, can result in poor root development and poor nutrient uptake. In conventional systems this can be at least partially overcome through the application of soluble fertilisers. Organic farming requires the preventative approach of aiming to ensure that soil structure does not limit production [1]
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