Sandy Loam Texture Research Articles

Assessment of Different Nutrient Combination on the Performance of Maize (Zea mays L) in North Indian Plains

A field experiment was conducted during the kharif season of 2023 at the Agriculture Research Farm, Graphic Era Hill University, Uttarakhand. Surface soil (0-15 cm) of the experiment field was sandy loam in texture, low organic carbon (0.39%), medium in available nitrogen (157 kg h-1), medium in available phosphorus (15.5 kg ha-1) and medium in available potassium (112.6 kg ha-1) with neutral soil reaction (pH 7.4). The experiment consisted of eleven treatments viz., 100% NPK (T1), 100% N (T2), 100% P (T3), 100% K (T4), 100% NP (T5), 100% NK (T6), 100% PK (T7), 100% NPK + VC 5 t ha -1 (T8), 100% + Azotobactor (T9), 100% + VC 5 t ha -1 + Azotobactor (T10), Control (T11). Each treatment was replicated thrice and constituted total of 33 plots. The field experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD). The variety used for the field experiment was K-55. The results of the field experiment reported that the effect of different treatments was significant on growth and productivity of maize. Significantly higher emergence count m-2 (9 m-2) of maize was obtained with the application of 100% NPK + VC @ 5t ha-1 + Azotobacter (T10). Maximum plant height (102.07 cm, 155.02 cm and 225.87 cm) was observed under treatment 100% NPK + VC @ 5t ha-1 + Azotobacter (T10) at 30, 45 and 60 days of sowing, respectively. It also produced highest dry matter m-2 (556.56 g, 1023.20 g, and 2062.00 g, respectively at 30 DAS, 45 DAS and 60 DAS). Application of vermicompost along with Azotobacter and chemical fertilizer produced maximum number of leaves per plant (4.05, 8.87 and 14.20 at 30 DAS, 45 DAS and 60 DAS, respectively). Application of 100% NPK + VC @ 5t ha-1 + Azotobacter (T10) resulted in significant improvement in yield attributes and yield of maize compared to other treatments. The maximum grain yield (59.93 q ha-1) and straw yield (69.90q ha-1) was produced under 100% NPK + VC @ 5t ha-1 + Azotobacter (T10). Moreover, adoption of different nutrient combinations resulted in improving the economic status of the farmer. Significantly higher B: C ratio of 1.90 was recorded for 100% NPK + VC @ 5t ha -1 + Azotobacter (T10) and it was 14.45 % higher than that for 100 % NPK (T1). Hence, it is concluded that application of 100% NPK + VC 5 t ha -1 + Azotobacter exhibited higher growth and yield along with B: C ratio.

Assessment of Soil Fertility Status in Vegetable Growing Area of Daman-Palung, Nepal

Soil fertility assessment is essential for sustainable planning for a particular area. Considering this, a study was conducted in November 2018, to determine the soil fertility status of the vegetable growing area of Makwanpur district, Nepal. In total, 50 soil samples were collected randomly from a depth of 0-20 cm using a soil sampling auger. A standard analytical method was used to analyze the texture, soil pH, (Organic matter (OM), Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P2O5), and Potassium (K2O) status of samples at the National Soil Science Research Centre, Khumaltar. The sand, silt and clay content were 45.67±2.08, 35.6±51.37 and 18.49±0.93 respectively and were indicated as loam and sandy loam in texture. The soil was moderately acidic (pH 5.11±0.5) in nature. Soil organic matter ranged from low to medium but the medium (3.37±1.72 %) was prevalent. Total nitrogen content (0.22±0.01 %) and available phosphorus (230.58 ±85.61 ppm), were found to be high. Furthermore, available potassium (97.4±70.04 ppm) content was medium in the soil. The purpose of this soil fertility assessment is to help researchers and farmers in Daman, Palung know the soil fertility status of their area and to guide sustainable soil fertility practices. This soil fertility assessment aims to help researchers and farmers in Daman, Palung understand soil fertility status and determine the best soil fertility practices for their area.

The productivity of selected soybean cultivars grown using various cultivation methods

Soybean is an important legume crop globally due to its rich protein, oil content, and functional components. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the yield of selected soybean cultivars depending on cultivation methods. The three-year field experiment, conducted from 2018 to 2020 at the Agricultural Experimental Station in Kępa-Puławy, Osiny farm (Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation – State Research Institute in Puławy), investigated these variations. The first experimental factor was the soil cultivation method: A – conventional tillage, B – reduced tillage, and C – strip tillage. The second variable was soybean cultivar: ‘Aldana’ and ‘Merlin’. The soybean cultivars were selected for their differing maturity rates: ‘Aldana’ (000) is an early cultivar, while ‘Merlin’ (000++) semi-late cultivar. The field experiment utilised a split-plot design on Luvisol soil with sandy loam texture, belonging to a good rye complex, class IIIb–IVa, and was replicated four times. The study showed that the productivity (seed and protein yield) of the ‘Merlin’ cultivar grown in the central-eastern part of Poland was approximately 8% higher than that of the ‘Aldana’ cultivar. The cultivation method had a relatively minor influence on soybean yield, the content of selected nutrients, morphological features, and elements of the yield structure. The soil in strip-tillage method was more compact than the soil cultivated with a plough. After harvesting soybeans at a depth of 30, and 40 cm, the compactness of soil in strip-tillage or with reduced tillage was much lower than in spring, highlighting a positive effect of soybean cultivation on loosening the arable layer.

Identification of plant soil water and soil aeration corequisites: A management tool

AbstractPlant‐available soil‐water and adequate soil aeration within the root zone are essential corequisites for successful plant growth. Characterization of these two requirements for plant growth is generally done by independent measurements of water and air phase properties and functions in soil, with limited emphasis on their combined effect. This study investigated soil‐water characteristic (SWC) measurements in vadose soil profiles (up to 117‐cm depth) in six pasture soils to examine the combined behavior of soil‐water and diffusion‐controlled aeration within the root zone. The soil moisture measurements were made over matric potentials ranging from −1 to −1500 kPa using tension table and pressure plate apparatus. The van Genuchten model was used to parameterize the measured SWC curve, while the Millington–Quick model was used to derive soil‐gas diffusivity from measured soil physical properties. Based on two simple indices, derived to represent plant‐available soil‐water and soil aeration status at a given moisture content, we propose an assessment matrix, which illustrates how a soil satisfies the corequisites for successful plant growth, as it drains to different matric potentials upon irrigation. Results show a pronounced effect of soil texture and, to a lesser extent, soil structure on satisfying these corequisites. With the aid of the assessment matrix, we observed that loam, sandy loam textures exhibited a good overall performance, while sand, clay loam, and clay soils struggled to meet these corequisites during drainage.

Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Yield and Economics of Rice

The present investigation was carried out during kharif season of 2022 and 2023 at Students' Instructional Farm of Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur (U.P.). The experiment consisted of fourteen different treatments in randomized block design replicated thrice. Soil of the experimental field was sandy loam in texture and slightly alkaline in reaction. The results showed that, on a pooled data basis, the highest grain yield (42.45 q/ha) was achieved with treatment T8, which involved the application of 75 % NPK + FYM + Consortia + Nano Zinc. Similarly, higher straw yields of 69.23 q/ha and 67.00 q/ha were recorded during both years, with T8 also yielding the maximum straw on a pooled basis, followed closely by T14. Pooled data analysis revealed that T8 achieved the highest grain and straw yields, along with the maximum Benefit-Cost (B: C) ratio of 3.42. The control (T1) consistently recorded the lowest grain and straw yields across both years. The inclusion of FYM, Consortia, and Nano Zinc in INM treatments significantly improved yield performance and soil health, making T8 the most economically viable treatment.

MACROZOOBENTHOS ABUNDANCE IN THE MANGROVE AREA OF TANAH MERAH SAMBOJA KUTAI KARTANEGARA EAST KALIMANTAN

Tanah Merah Beach is a coastal area of Samboja in East Kalimantan, which is a local tourist destination. The association of coastal ecosystems can be shown by macrozoobenthos, as one of the biota components in coastal areas to mangroves. This study identifies the species, calculates the abundance, and analyses the ecological index of macrozoobenthos, as well as looking at the relationship between nutrients and sediment texture with the number of macrozoobenthos found. The purpose of this research is to determine the condition of nutrients in the sediment substrate to its abundance in the mangrove ecosystem area. Sampling was conducted at three points based on the percentage of mangrove canopy cover in the Monmang version 2.0 application, with each point represented by 3 quadrant points measuring 0.25 m2. The results showed that the percentage of mangrove canopy cover was categorised as slight-moderate, the abundance of individuals was dominated by the Gastropoda class with 9 species and a small proportion of the Bivalve class. The ecological indices in order are the Diversity Index (H') in the low category, Diversity (E) in the low category, and dominance (C) found Cerithidae sp species dominating each point. The highest abundance was found at radius 2 canopy cover 77.24 - 83.13%. Nutrient content in sediment, nitrate (1.00-16.25 mg/L), phosphate (29.01-83.94 mg/L), organic carbon (2.23-3.24%) with confirmed sediment texture of sandy loam. Nitrate content ranged from 1.00-16.25 mg/L, Phosphate 34.65 - 44.51 mg/L and Organic carbon 2.23-3.24% (per mg) in the sediment and a significant effect of phosphate content on Macrozoobenthos abundance was found in the correlation test results.

Influence of Eucalyptus globulus plantations on soil characteristics at different altitudinal levels

This study evaluated the influence of Eucalyptus globulus L. plantations on the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil in three districts: Magdalena, Tingo and San Isidro del Maino. The evaluation was carried out in six plots, three with eucalyptus and three with natural forests. In each plot with eucalyptus, 10 specimens were selected to measure their dasometric characteristics. Ten soil samples were taken at the base of each specimen to evaluate the bulk density and soil characterization, replicating the sampling in the natural forest plots. Additionally, biological sampling was carried out in each plot using the Rapid Soil Sampling Protocol, with a total of five quadrats per plot. The results showed significant differences in diameter at breast height (DBH), tree height and dry biomass among the districts evaluated. Trees in Magdalena presented the highest DBH and height, with an average biomass of 934.22 kg/tree, while those in Tingo showed the lowest values, with an average biomass of 230.00 kg/tree. Diverse flora species associated with both eucalyptus and natural forests were identified, reflecting a rich biodiversity in each district. Soils with eucalyptus in Tingo showed a predominantly clay texture, while in Magdalena and San Isidro del Maino a sandy loam texture predominated. In the natural forests, the soils in Tingo were also clayey, with more varied textures in the other districts. Bulk density was higher in forest soils in Tingo and in eucalyptus soils in San Isidro del Maino. Soils under eucalyptus had lower pH and lower electrical conductivity compared to natural forest soils. In terms of nutrients, the eucalyptus soils in Tingo and Magdalena showed higher phosphorus and potassium contents, while in San Isidro del Maino, the forest soils had higher levels. In general, eucalyptus soils showed higher levels of organic carbon, organic matter and nitrogen in Tingo and Magdalena, but lower in San Isidro del Maino. Biologically, natural forest soils exhibited a higher diversity and quantity of organisms compared to eucalyptus soils, especially in San Isidro del Maino. Detritivore indices were higher in natural forests, suggesting greater soil biodiversity. This higher diversity could be associated with better soil quality in these systems, highlighting the importance of natural forests in maintaining healthy soils.

Impact of NPK, Rhizobium and FYM on Physico-Chemical Properties of Soil for Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) Cv. Radha SPL

An experiment was conducted to study the impact of NPK, Rhizobium and FYM on Soil properties, and Yield of Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) Cv. Radha SPL at Research farm of Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Naini Agricultural Institute, during kharif season of 2023-24. The experiment with 18 treatments, was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. The pre and post-harvest soil samples taken for analysis revealed sandy loam in texture. and treatment T18 - [ N20P40K40+ FYM@ 5 t ha-1+Rhizobium@ 600 g ha-1] showed a slight decrease in soil pH (7.18), Db (1.21 Mg.m-1) and Dp (2.20 Mg.m-1) along with increase in EC, pore space, water holding capacity and organic carbon i.e.,0.29 dSm-1, 46.88%, 44.90%, 0.55% respectively. The maximum available nitrogen 292 kg ha-1, phosphorus 31.18kg ha-1 and potassium 264 kg ha-1 were recorded in T18. made it best treatment among soil health parameters.

Efficacy of nitrogen and Azolla spp. on growth and yield of black rice (Oryza sativa L.)

An experimental field study was carried out in the Kharif season of 2023 at the Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.). The experimental replications were conducted using a Randomized Block Design, with three levels of Nitrogen (0, 60, 90kg N/ha) and Azolla spp. (2, 4, 6t/ha), and one Control (NPK 120:60:60 kg/ha). In all, there were a total of ten treatments, each reproduced three times. The tested field had sandy loam soil texture with a neutral soil pH of 7.6, low organic carbon content of 0.372%, nitrogen content of 278.4 kg/ha, phosphorous content of 29.5 kg/ha, and potassium level of 217.3 kg/ha. The experimental results showed that treatment T₉ obtained significantly higher plant height (107.77 cm), dry weight (66.05 g), crop growth rate (57.27 g/m2/day), relative growth rate (0.0279 g/g/day), highest number of tillers per hill (22.07), panicles per m2 (282), test weight (15.23 g), grain yield (3.67 t/ha), stover yield (6.7 t/ha), and harvest index (35.74%). Transplanted Black Rice of variety BPT-2841 exhibited significantly greater maximum gross return (1,80,551.40 INR/ha), net return (1,05,496.30 INR/ha), and B:C ratio (1.41) in treatment T9. The investigation concludes that Nitrogen, being easily transportable in soil and plants, is a constituent of amino acids, nucleic acids, chlorophyll, enzymes, and hormones. These factors are essential in plant physiology and are associated with increased tillering, biomass production, protein synthesis, grain filling, yield, and quality. The availability, absorption, and utilization of nitrogen have a significant impact on these processes. Therefore, in the present experiment, the nitrogen requirements are met by applying 90kg of nitrogen through urea combined with 6t/ha of Azolla spp. This approach revealed superior performance in terms of both crop yield and economic returns .

Soil morphological characteristics in the active volcanic toposequence zone at Tangkuban Parahu volcano, Indonesia

Soil formation in volcanic terrains presents a significant challenge due to the diverse physical and chemical properties imparted by volcanic activity, which are not yet fully understood. This study investigates the unique morphological characteristics of soil profiles within crater topography sequences at the Tangkuban Parahu Volcano, Indonesia. To address this gap, five representative sample profiles (I, II, III, IV, V) were analyzed. The Ratu Crater pathway topography was characterized by steep to very steep slopes. Detailed analysis identified three predominant soil layers, each with distinct features such as color, texture, porosity, and chemical composition, reflecting different stages of soil formation. At the highest elevation near the crater rim, Profile V was composed mainly of volcanic ash, with a loose structure, high porosity, and acidic pH, indicative of recent volcanic deposits. Profile III, at intermediate elevations, consisted of highly weathered soil with sandy loam textures and clear layer demarcations, suggesting prolonged soil development and consolidation. Profile I, at the lowest elevation, featured loamy sand with significant weathering and organic matter incorporation, indicating advanced soil development stages. The findings underscore the impact of volcanic activity on soil morphology, revealing distinct layers that correlate with various ages and developmental stages. Understanding these processes can inform agricultural practices.

Evaluation and comparison of infiltration models for estimating infiltration capacity of different textures of irrigated soils

Accurate estimation of infiltration rates is crucial for effective irrigation system design and evaluation by optimizing irrigation scheduling, preventing soil erosion, and enhancing water use efficiency. This study evaluates and compares selected infiltration models for estimating water infiltration rates in the Shillanat-iv irrigation scheme in northern Ethiopia. Soil samples were collected to determine textural classes using hydrometer soil texture analysis and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) textural triangle. The soil textural map of the study was created using the inverse distance weight interpolation technique in ArcGIS version 10.4. Infiltration rates were measured using the double-ring infiltrometer for five soil textures: clay loam, loam, sandy clay loam, clay, and sandy loam. Six infiltration models (Kostiakov, Modified Kostiakov, Revised Modified Kostiakov, Philip, Horton, and Novel) were employed and evaluated using statistical parameters. Model calibration and validation were conducted using data from 38 points within the study area. The parameter values of the infiltration models were optimized using SPSS statistical software using least-squares errors. The results showed that, Revised Modified Kostiakov, Modified Kostiakov, and Novel infiltration models demonstrated superior capability in estimating infiltration rates for clay loam, loam, and sandy loam soil textures, respectively. Horton's model outperformed other models in estimating infiltration rates for both sandy clay loam and clay soil textures. The appropriately fitted infiltration models can be utilized in designing the irrigation system to estimate the infiltration rate of soil textures within the selected irrigation scheme and at similar sites with comparable soil textures.

Response of NPK and Neem Cake on Soil Properties, Growth and Yield of Cluster Bean

At the soil science and agricultural chemistry research farm, an experiment was carried out during the 2023–2024 growing season. Nine treatments were arranged in a randomised block design with three replications for the current investigations. The pre-sowing soil sample used for the analysis of the cluster bean was taken for the study. The soil has a sandy loam texture, and the cluster bean responds considerably to the various treatment combinations. Under treatment T9 -, the highest phosphorus was measured at 30.43 kg ha-1 in 0–15 cm deep and 27.65 kg ha-1 in 15–30 cm depth. and in treatment T1, the lowest phosphorus levels were 18.81 kg ha-1 at 0–15 cm depth and 15.74 kg ha-1 at 15–30 cm depth. Treatment T9 produced the highest potassium levels, 252.9 kg ha-1 in 0–15 cm depth and 186.7 kg ha-1 in 15–30 cm depth, while treatment T1 produced the lowest potassium levels, 199.7 kg ha-1 in 0–15 cm depth and 166.8 kg ha-1 in 15–30 cm depth.

Precision nitrogen management strategies and high yielding genotypes for enhanced growth, yield, economics, and nitrogen use efficiency in wheat

Current agricultural production systems face challenges of poor economic returns, soil fatigue and negative environmental outcomes from excess use of nitrogenous fertilizers, especially in wheat production under middle gangetic plains. To overcome these challenges, the current study was conducted to optimize nitrogen management in different wheat genotypes with precision nitrogen management tools and approaches. The field experiment was laid out in split-plot design, with three genotypes assigned to the main plot and six nitrogen management practices to the sub-plot. The soil of the experimental field was sandy loam in texture, with low levels of organic carbon and available nitrogen, and medium levels of available phosphorus and potassium. Results revealed that the HD-2967 genotype outperformed others in terms of growth, grain yield (4.7 and 4.81 t ha−1), gross return (1417.41 and 1505.48 US$ ha−1), net return (953.43 and 1019.76 US$ ha−1), and B-C ratio (2.04 and 2.08) in 2015-16 and 2016-17, respectively. Among the nitrogen management practices, application of 150 kg N ha−1 in three equal splits demonstrated improved crop growth, grain yield (4.7 and 4.81 t ha−1), and economic returns (gross return, 1500.40 and 1607.65 US$ ha−1, net return, 1025.40 and 1110.38 US$ ha−1 and B: C ratio, 2.17 and 2.23) in 2015-16 and 2016-17, respectively. However, it resulted in higher nitrogen losses. Green seeker guided N application significantly reduced apparent nitrogen losses compared to all other nitrogen applied treatments. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing wheat production by selecting appropriate genotypes and implementing precision nitrogen management techniques to enhance yield, profitability, and environmental sustainability.

Soil Test Crop Response Concerning Soil Properties and Yield Attributes of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) var. Krishna

We experimented in the field at the central research farm of the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj during Rabi season of 2022-23. The soil in the experimental area was characterized by a sandy loam texture. There were 27unit plots in total, with each plot sized at 2 X 2 m. We used a randomized block design, incorporating different levels of NPK (80:40:40), vermicompost, and two levels of sulfur (50% and 100%). The T9 (STCR+ 5t ha-1 Vermicompost+ 100% S) demonstrated that although there was a slight decrease in pH, bulk density, and particle density, there was a significant (P<0.05) increase in pore space, water holding capacity, electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon, and the availability of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Improvements were observed in plant growth and yield attributes, which showed the best results in terms of plant height, number of siliquae per plant, and total mustard yield compared to the control conditions. However, the use of organic manures and their combination with a full NPK treatment significantly enhanced the growth and overall yield attributes of mustard.

Performances of phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms on soil chemical properties under different soil characteristics: a meta-analysis

The addition of phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms (PSM) as biofertilizers can improve the quality of soil properties. A meta-analysis study was conducted to analyze the effect of PSM on soil properties. This meta-analysis has analyzed 20 research articles published between 1990 and 2023, which have reported the influence of PSM on soil properties. The value of effect size (ES) Hedges'd of available-P is 3.047 (p<0.001), ES of available K is 2.102 (p<0.001), ES of soil nitrogen (N) is 1.706 (p<0.001), ES of pH is -2.738 (p<0.001), ES of soil organic carbon (SOC) is 1.087 (p=0.004), ES of N-NH4 is 0.636 (p= 0.013), ES of N-NO3 is 2.643 (p< 0.001), ES of phosphatase is 5.001 (p< 0.001), ES of alkaline phosphatase is 22.956 (p<0.001), and ES of acid phosphatase is 23.104 (p<0.001). The results showed that in terms of phosphate solubility, PSM is more effective on alkaline soils with high SOC content, very high P availability, and a sandy loam texture. PSM is more effective for K solubility on acidic soils, with very high SOC content, high P availability, and a loamy texture. PSM is effective in increasing soil N with acid soil characteristics, low SOC content, moderate available P content, and clay texture. According to this study, the Penicillium fungus ranks second in the fungal group in terms of phosphate solubilization capacity after the genus Azotobacter. The genus Peronospora showed the greatest potential in increasing soil N. In contrast, Burkholderia showed the greatest effectiveness in solubilizing K.

PENGARUH TAMBAK SILVOFISHERY TERHADAP SIFAT FISIK TANAH MANGROVE SEBAGAI LAHAN KONSERVASI DAERAH MUARA SUNGAI BOGOWONTO KULON PROGO DAERAH ISTIMEWA YOGYAKARTA

The Bogowonto River estuary is a coastal area in the open water category because it faces the Indian Ocean directly, it has high wave energy, which will cause erosion and abrasion, and the presence of mangrove and pond ecosystems (silvofishery) can support the development of coastal areas as conservation land. So it is necessary to conduct research to examine the influence of soil physical properties on silvofishing and determine the types of mangroves in the Bogowonto River estuary area. The method used was a survey, where soil samples were tested at the Yogyakarta BPTP Laboratory and the Yogyakarta "Veteran" National Development University at a depth of 0–20 cm and 20–40 cm. Sampling was conducted in a zigzag method from the left (near the pond) and right sides of the river. The results of the research found that there are 2 types of mangroves, namely the Tan cang (Bruguiera sp.), which grows far from the coastline and close to fish pond areas (silvofishery), has a has a relatively stable pH, is dominated by clay texture, and has a low salinity level. White Mangrove (Avicennia sp.) grows near the coastline, with a dominant sandy loam texture, low-normal pH, and high salinity levels. Mangroves that grow along the southern river in the presence of silvofishery can help with the deposition process of mud that is transported along the river and maintain the sustainability of fish populations, and litter from mangroves tends to increase the organic matter content of the soil.

Response of Intercropping Finger Millet on Growth and Yield of Pulses

A field experiment was conducted during kharif season in Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P.) India. The current research aims to evaluate the growth and yield of various pulses namely cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.), black gram (Vigna mungo L.) and green gram (Vigna radiata L.) and when cultivated as intercrops with finger millet. The soil of the experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.6), low in organic carbon (0.51 %), available N (78.9 kg/ha), available P (32.88 kg/ha) and available K (385.10 kg/ha). The treatments consisted of 3 pulse crops (Cowpea, Black gram and green gram) and 3 row ratios (2:1, 4:1 and 6:1). The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with 13 treatments and replicated thrice. Maximum plant height and yield attributes was recorded in sole plots of cowpea (treatment 11), Black gram (treatment 12) and Green gram (treatment 13) respectively. Finger millet equivalent yield was recorded high in (treatment 7) where finger millet was intercropped with green gram in 2:1 ratio.

Physical and vegetation characteristics of soil cover on a liquefied land

Liquefaction is a phenomenon where a solid soil becomes liquid due to an earthquake or other vibrations and other sources of intense shaking, leading to a loss of soil strength and stiffness. Liquefaction can damage structures and condition of the land surface and may affect the state of the vegetation that grows on the land. Therefore, it is necessary to study the physical properties of the soil and the condition of vegetation after the liquefaction event. This study examines changes in the physical conditions of alluvial soil and vegetation cover on the land surface after the liquefaction disaster and future management strategies. This research was carried out from August to December 2022 by taking composite and representative soil samples from three land conditions, namely liquefied land consisting of eroded and piled up soil, as well as a control sample from ground that was not liquefied. Soil sample analysis was conducted at the Laboratory of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tadulako University. The research used several observational variables: soil texture, permeability, bulk density, porosity, and organic matter. Observation of land surface cover and vegetation types was done using the quadrant method. The results indicated that, overall, areas affected by liquefaction experienced a substantial loss of soil mass, leading to a lower land surface, particularly in regions prone to erosion. Due to the erosion of surface soil, the remaining subsoil had a sandy loam texture, higher bulk density, increased permeability, and reduced organic matter content. As a result, the ground surface became undulating, with mounds of soil and irregular surface drainage in certain areas. For areas that experienced liquefaction up to four years after the disaster, the level of land cover only reached 60-61%. In contrast, the level of land cover by surface vegetation reached 93.7%.

Soil Test Crop Response on Soil Health Parameters and Yield Attributes of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) var. Kuber

The investigation was conducted on Soil Test Crop Response (STCR) based Integrated Plant Nutrient System (IPNS) technology, where the fertilizer doses are customized according to the anticipated crop yield, considering the crop's nutrient requirements and the contributions from soil, fertilizers, and organic manures. The field trial took place at the Soil Science research farm of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, during the zaid season of 2023. The soil under experimentation had a sandy loam texture. The setup followed a randomized block design with varying levels of NPK (0%, 50%, & 100%), FYM (20, 25, & 30 t ha-1), Fe and Zn (15, 20, & 25 kg ha-1) respectively. The outcomes from the T9 treatment - [115:112:75 Kg ha-1 + 25 t ha-1 FYM + 25 kg ha-1 Fe and Zn] exhibited superior plant height, number of branches plant-1, number of leaves plants-1, number of fruits plant-1, and overall fruit yield. No significant differences were noted in the yield and growth of okra under the control conditions. The application of organic manures alone or in combination with full NPK substantially enhanced the growth and total yield parameters of okra. Among all treatments, the simultaneous application of 100% NPK, 100% FYM, and 100% Fe & Zn displayed the most remarkable influence on the growth of okra.

Effect of Irrigation Regimes and Applied Nitrogen Levels on Growth and Physiological Responses of Ryegrass

A field experiment was conducted at the Instructional-cum-Research (ICR) Farm, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with three replications. The treatments consisted of five levels of irrigation in main plot viz., I0:Rainfed, I1: Irrigation at critical growth stages, I2: Irrigation at IW:CPE ratio of 1.0, I3: Irrigation at IW:CPE ratio of 1.2 and I4: Irrigation at IW:CPE ratio of 1.4 along with four levels of N- N0: 0 kg N/ha, N1: 30 kg N/ha, N2: 60 kg N/ha and N3: 90 kg N/ha in sub- plots. The soil of the experimental site was sandy loam in texture, medium in organic carbon, available N and available P2O5, acidic in reaction and low in available K2O. The result revealed that the highest leaf area index (LAI) recorded in irrigation at IW:CPE ratio of 1.4 at all the three cuts respectively during both the years. The crop growth rate (CGR), relative growth rate (RGR) and net assimilation rate (NAR) of ryegrass as influenced by different irrigation regimes were found to be non-significant at 30 DAS while at later growth stages i.e. 45 DAS, 60 DAS, 90 DAS and 120 DAS were significantly influenced during both the years. The application of irrigation at IW:CPE of 1.4 produced higher value of CGR, RGR but the highest NAR was recorded in rainfed treatment. The data on LAI as influenced by different N levels was found to be significant in all three cuts. Application of 90 kg N/ha recorded the highest LAI. The CGR, RGR and NAR as influenced by different N levels were found to non significant at 30 DAS but significantly influenced at later growth stage i.e. 45 DAS, 60 DAS, 90 DAS and 120 DAS during both the years. The highest data on CGR and RGR were recorded in 90 kg N/ha but the highest NAR was found in 0 kg N/ha.