Soil fertility status of Ratte Khera farm of Punjab Agricultural University, Punjab, India

Abstract

Aim: To delineates micro and macro nutrients along with physico-chemical properties of Ratte-Khera farm of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, Punjab, India for effective use of nutrients. Methodology: Thirty two soil samples were collected during 2019 from eight different location using GPS from different soils depths viz.? 0-15,15-30, 30-60 and 60-90 cm in the problematic water logged soils of Ratte-khera farm. Further, GPS maps were also prepared pertaining to different depths for the judicious use of fertilizers in the region.? Parker nutrient index was also evaluated for different nutrients for the region. Results: Around 87.5% of the samples had normal pH (6.5 -8.7) and 12.5% soils were with pH on higher side with higher range of EC, lower range of SOC, higher and potassium. About 87.5 % samples were in higher available-phosphorus. Further, lower and higher range of DTPA zinc and copper observed in samples while 25 and 37.5% recorded with lower range of DTPA iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn). Correlation analysis revealed? availability of Fe is positively associated with Mn, P, Cu and Zn in the soil. Interpretation: Soils of Ratte-Khera farm reported to be saline (white alkali soils) with normal range of pH (no need to add any gypsum or lime). Final recommendation is to apply 25% higher dose of nitrogenous (N) and phosphatic (P) fertilizers with no need for potassic fertilizers. Further, micro-nutrients should be applied as and when symptoms observed on the field crops.