Potato growth, yield, and quality in response to phosphorus application rates across a range of soil test P concentrations

The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Bhadradri Kothagudem conducted Front Line Demonstrations (FLD) on soil test-based fertilizer application, including foliar spraying of need-based nutrient solution (ZnSO4, Formula-4) during the Rabi seasons of 2018-19, 2019-20, and 2020-21 within its operational area. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a technological package combining soil test-based fertilizer recommendations and micronutrient foliar sprays. These demonstrations compared the effectiveness of recommended dose fertilizers application (N, P2O5, K2O) and soil test based fertilizer recommendation. Yield improvement of 6.6 % observed in soil test based fertilizer application plot compared to normal recommended dose of fertilizer application plot, Which resulted in that the soil test based fertilizer recommendation plots had higher cost-benefit ratios (B: C Ratio) of 2.57:1, 2.32 :1 and 2.35 :1 compared to the B: C ratios of 2.01 :1, 1.89:1 and 1.92:1 in normal farmers practice plots during the corresponding years.

A comprehensive three-year field study was conducted to develop and validate soil test crop response (STCR)-based nutrient prescription equations for coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) in Alfisols. The research comprised three distinct experimental phases: a fertility gradient experiment, a main experiment, and a validation trial. Across these phases, over 72 soil and plant samples were collected and analyzed for nutrient content and compositional quality. The fertility gradient experiment established significant variability in soil NPK status using fodder maize as an indicator crop. In the main experiment, coriander plots subjected to varying fertility levels and nutrient management strategies-including farmyard manure (FYM) supplementation-were assessed for yield, nutrient uptake, and key quality metrics (total phenols, flavonoids, and ascorbic acid). Prescription equations targeting specific yield levels were developed by calculating nutrient requirements and quantifying contributions from soil, fertilizer, and FYM. The validation trial demonstrated that STCR-based recommendations, especially those integrating 7.5 t ha ⁻ ¹ FYM, substantially improved green foliage yield (up to 56.9% higher), nutrient uptake (N, P, K), and quality parameters compared to generalized recommended doses and soil fertility rating approaches. Enhanced outcomes were observed for value cost ratio, response yield stick, and nutrient use efficiency indices (Partial Factor Productivity, Agronomic Efficiency, Partial Nutrient Balance, Internal Utilization Efficiency). Overall, the STCR approach with integrated nutrient management proved effective in increasing yield, improving quality, and optimizing nutrient use efficiency in coriander, advancing the case for site-specific and balanced fertilizer application in sustainable coriander production.

Abstract This study presents a nonlinear solution for cavity expansion on the basis of unified strength theory, and considers the influence of strain-softening and drained condition. By assuming that the small-strain in elastic region, and large-strain in softening and plastic flow region, instead of, the assumption of elastic region and plastic region were usually used in calculation. The initial stress may be anisotropic due to the influence of the initial consolidation of geomaterials. Besides, a drained cylindrical cavity expansion analysis definitely will be more suitable for the interpretation of in situ soil testing in geomaterials with very high permeability. In the end, some data are conducted to verify the suitability of this study. The research results provide a theoretical basis for the analysis of cavity expansion in geomaterials with very high permeability, and have a certain reference value for similar engineering designs.

A field experiment was carried out at the Main Rice Research Centre, Soil and Water Management Research Unit, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat during kharif seasons of 2019-2021 to study the influence of zinc source on yield of hybrid rice and Zn uptake by rice plant in response to zinc sulphate (ZnSO4 ) and zn-ethylene diamine tetra acetate (Zn-EDTA) as Zn source carried out in randomized block design with four replications. The experiment consists of eight treatments viz., Z1 : control, Z2 : application of Zn as per soil test based through ZnSO4 , Z3 :100% soil application (ZnSO4 @ 25 kg ha-1), Z4 : spray 0.05% ZnSO4 at tillering +panicle initiation (PI) stage, Z5 : spray 0.1% ZnSO4 at tillering + PI stage, Z6 : spray 0.05% Zn -at tillering + PI stage, Z7 : spray 0.1 % Zn-EDTA at tillering stage + PI stage and Z8 : application of Zn as per soil test based through Zn-EDTA. The results revealed that yield attributes and yield of rice was significantly enhanced on addition of zinc sources over control. The maximum panicle length, panicle weight, grain and straw yield were recorded with the application of zinc as per soil test based application through Zn-EDTA and was on par with spraying of 0.05 and 0.1 % Zn-EDTA at tillering and panicle initiation stage. Application of zinc in the form of Zn-EDTA resulted in grater values for these parameters as compared to zinc sulphate source. Application of both zinc sources failed to produce any remarkable changes in zinc content in rice grain. However, zinc content in rice straw and zinc uptake by rice plant was recorded higher with the application of Zn-EDTA. Thus, Zn-EDTA proved to be efficient sources as foliar spray @ 0.05 % for rice production and Zn uptake by rice plant.

Abstract Pecans [ Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch] are widely cultivated in the semi‐arid and arid regions of New Mexico and Texas, where irrigation relies heavily on the Rio Grande River and brackish groundwater. This study evaluated the impact of these water sources on soil physicochemical properties, nutrient availability, and pecan tree performance across six orchards along the Rio Grande in southern New Mexico and western Texas over two growing seasons. Soil samples were analyzed for texture, ion concentrations, sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), electrical conductivity (EC), and pH. Pecan performance was assessed using stem water potential (SWP) and leaf and kernel nutrient concentrations. Soil texture significantly influenced magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), and sodium (Na). The highest SAR (11.75) and EC (6.21 dS/m) were observed in loamy soil at Fabens 2, with pH ranging from 7.3 to 7.5. SWP values ranged from −12 to −14 bar in clayey soils and −10 to −12.5 bar in sandy soils. Leaf and kernel nutrient concentrations varied by location, with the highest zinc (Zn) levels in Fabens 2 (leaf: 160 mg/kg) and Derry (kernel: 120 mg/kg), and peak phosphorus (P) in Derry (leaf: 1195 mg/kg) and Las Cruces (kernel: 2858 mg/kg). Loamy soils with higher EC supported elevated Zn, Na, and potassium (K) in leaves, while sandy loams promoted higher Mg and kernel nutrient accumulation. In leaf, Zn decreased with Mg and K, while Na was strongly antagonistic to Ca and Mg. In the kernel, P, Mg, Ca, and K increased together. Zn tended to decline as P and K were raised. Seasonal variations showed greater Mg, Ca, and Na in leaves in October, while P and Ca in kernels peaked in 2015. A massive increase in nutrients from soil to leaf, then a decrease in the kernel. These findings underscore the need for site‐specific nutrient management and regular soil and tissue testing to optimize fertilization and mitigate imbalances.

India’s cotton farming, reliant on chemical fertilizers, faces soil degradation and yield decline. To combat this, a sustainable Soil Test Crop Response - Integrated Plant Nutrient System (STCR-IPNS) approach was adopted in vertisols of Karaikal district (Typic Haplusterts), to develop fertilizer prescription equation for cotton. A fertility gradient experiment was conducted with rice (ADT 45), wherein three strips were established by applying phosphorus and potassium at 150 and 100 kg ha-1 respectively, based on their fixing capacities, while nitrogen was applied as per the recommended dose. A field experiment with cotton hybrid RCH 659 BG II was conducted using four levels of nitrogen (N at 0, 60, 120 and 180 kg ha-1), phosphorus (P₂O₅ at 0, 30, 60 and 90 kg ha-1), potassium (K₂O at 0, 30, 60 and 90 kg ha-1) and three levels of farmyard manure (FYM) (0, 6.25 and 12.5 t ha-1) to optimize fertilizer use efficiency and enhance soil health. Maximum yield and growth parameters were achieved with NPK + 12.5 t ha-1 FYM. Using yield data, nutrient uptake, initial soil N, P, K levels and fertilizer doses, basic parameters were computed to develop fertilizer prescription equations. Nutrient requirement for cotton followed the order K₂O > N > P₂O5. Nutrient contributions from soil (Cs) were higher for P2O5 followed by K2O and N. Fertilizer contributions (Cf) followed K₂O > P₂O5 > N, while FYM contributions (Cfym) were highest for N followed by K2O and P2O5. Using these parameters, fertilizer prescription equations and nomograms were developed for target yields (31, 33 and 35 q ha-1). Application of NPK with FYM at 12.5 t ha-1 resulted in fertilizer savings of 52, 30 and 48 kg ha-1 of N, P2O5 and K2O respectively. The STCR-IPNS approach enhanced yield, nutrient use efficiency and soil fertility, making it ideal for sustainable intensification in vertisols of Karaikal district.

In the present study, an attempt was made to assess the awareness of soil testing and the use of fertilizers among farmers in Belagavi District. The survey method was adopted, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire. A total of 500 farmers were randomly selected for the study. Structured interviews were conducted with 500 farmers from ten talukas of Belagavi District, with 50 respondents drawn from each taluka representing different categories. The responses obtained from these interviews formed the basis for the analysis and results

Soil and groundwater pollution from anthropogenic activities poses a significant challenge to agricultural sustainability in rural areas, including Sukasari Village, Tanjungsari District, Sumedang Regency. This study aims to delineate contaminated zones and characterize contaminant distribution patterns through the integration of geoelectrical methods and soil physicochemical analysis. The geoelectrical survey was conducted along eight lines using a 48 electrode configuration with 1 meter spacing. The resistivity cross-sections revealed high-resistivity anomalies in the garden area located downslope of the settlement, indicating contaminant accumulation. This finding was supported by soil test results that confirmed the presence of pollutants, while the area around the biodigester remained relatively uncontaminated. The results indicate that the primary sources of contamination are household and agricultural activities in the southern settlement area, with contaminant migration toward the gardens and rice fields in the north. Overall, this study demonstrates that integrating geoelectrical methods and soil physicochemical analysis is an effective approach for mapping subsurface contamination and supporting sustainable agricultural land management.

The policy paper explores the potential of transforming Common Service Centers (CSCs) into Village Knowledge Centers (VKCs) to address critical agricultural challenges faced by rural farmers in India. The CSCs, established under National E-Governance Plan (NeGP), currently serve as digital hubs providing government to-citizen (G2C) services, including financial transactions, e-governance, and limited agricultural services. However, with over 596,000 operational CSCs (4.67 lakhs at Gram Panchayats), there remains significant untapped potential to expand their role in rural agricultural empowerment. By transitioning CSCs into VKCs, these centers can deliver tailored agricultural extension services such as crop advisory, soil testing, pest management, and real-time market linkages, directly contributing to the socio-economic development of rural communities. The study identifies several barriers that limit the effectiveness of CSCs in agricultural service delivery. These include a lack of specialized agricultural training for Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs), insufficient infrastructure such as internet connectivity and digital tools, and low awareness among farmers about existing CSC services. Farmers report moderate satisfaction with services like government scheme applications but express dissatisfaction with agricultural advisories, citing them as untimely and inadequate. Additionally, financial constraints and limited access to real-time market and price information remain significant challenges for small and marginal farmers. To address these issues, the policy brief proposes a comprehensive roadmap for transforming CSCs into VKCs. Key recommendations include expanding agricultural services to cover agriculture, horticulture, livestock, and fisheries, strengthening VLE capacity through targeted training programs, efficient market linkages, upgrading infrastructure to support advanced tools like soil testing kits and IoT devices and leveraging digital platforms for precision agriculture. These measures aim to make VKCs a one-stop solution for farmers, providing them with the knowledge, tools, and The paper presented the VKC model, the key inputs will enhance the performance of VKCs for the benefit of farming community. The VKC model operates on a clear Theory of Change that links assumptions, inputs, activities, outputs, and outcomes. It assumes that farmers are willing to adopt VKC services if they are accessible, relevant, and affordable, and that VLEs can be trained to deliver high-quality services. The paper also presents an implementation plan for short-term, medium-term and long-term for effective operationalisation of VKCs for effective delivery of agricultural services to farmers in rural India

FRET-based colorimetric and ratiometric fluorescent probe for Hg2+ detection in water, soil, plants and live cells.

Abstract Geogrid-stabilized aggregate layers are used to increase the bearing capacity of weak subgrade material. Applications of these geogrid-aggregate composite layers include, but are not limited to, temporary working platforms, road construction, and railway ballast. The interaction of the geogrid with the aggregate creates a stiffer, stronger composite material that has properties that cannot be predicted from the results of soil testing or in-air index testing of geosynthetic properties. Given the challenges associated with scaling, centrifuge or other simulation is not realistic, and thus full-scale physical modeling is required. This paper presents details of what we believe to be the largest-ever full-scale controlled plate load tests, which were carried out near Clavet, SK, Canada. A 1 m square plate was used to load both geogrid-stabilized and nonstabilized aggregate test pads constructed over a relatively weak silty clay. This system, with a maximum load capacity of 1,060 kN, brought each pad to and past its ultimate bearing capacity, with load and displacement measured directly. Analyses, including cone penetration testing, photogrammetry, and intensive material characterization, were done before and after plate load testing. Results showed that the stabilized layers outperformed the nonstabilized layers. The stabilized layers demonstrated more consistent results between tests, averaged higher ultimate bearing capacities, had prolonged peak loads, and had improved values of modulus of subgrade reaction. Follow-up publications will have further analysis to quantify the benefits provided by stabilized layers as well as to explore the failure mechanisms with and without geogrid.

The phosphorus (P) availability's role in carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) accumulation in long-term systems remains unclear. This study evaluated the P fertilization's influence on C and N storage, C:N ratio, humic matter, and the C:clay ratio in two long-term corn (Zea mays L.)/soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] rotation trials under conservation tillage in North Carolina. Soil samples were collected at 0-5, 5-10, 10-20, and 20-30cm. A linear-plateau model evaluated the effect of soil test phosphorus (STP), from long-term fertilization, on C and N stocks at 0-10, 0-20, and 0-30cm. Both sites exhibited depth-based STP gradients, although P rates significantly affected C stocks only in the 0-10cm layer at Tidewater. P availability influenced C stocks at both sites, with greater P content and a higher critical soil test phosphorus value (CSTV) in Tidewater. CSTVs derived from C and N stocks were strongly correlated with those based on relative crop yield (R2=0.99). On average, the sandy soil at Tidewater accumulated more C than the clayey soil at Piedmont, reflecting differences in C stabilization. Maintaining soil test phosphorus near the CSTV increased C stocks by 2.1-2.7 Mg ha- 1 and N stocks by 0.2-0.3 Mg ha- 1 across the evaluated depths, contributing to improved soil fertility and agroecosystem resilience. Piedmont soils, despite lower total C stocks, showed greater C storage potential due to higher clay content, reinforcing the need for site-specific P management adapted to soil texture and C stabilization capacity.

The study focuses on analysis of long term stored unknown chemicals and environmental impacts of stored chemicals at Ethiopia's Ethiopia Pulp and Paper Factory. In order to guide safe disposal or reuse, the goal is to identify and evaluate the chemical's qualities, especially its acidity, basicity, and composition. Both survey-based and laboratory methodologies are used in the investigation. While physical and chemical studies, such as pH measurements and cationic ion analysis, are carried out, information on chemical storage conditions is gathered using a standardized questionnaire. Soil samples gathered in the vicinity are examined to assess the environmental impact, and chemical samples are evaluated in water to ascertain their pH and solubility. Accuracy is ensured by multiple tests, the results of which are combined into averages and standard deviations. With pH values ranging from roughly 3.63 to 8.63, the results show that the compounds have a spectrum of weak acidic to weak basic characteristics. Aluminum sulfate is the main component found in the analysis, with traces of starch. Despite chemical contact, soil tests around the stored compounds are mainly neutral, indicating little immediate environmental damage. Sample variations indicate weak basicity or acidity, and the insoluble chemical further indicates intricate chemical interactions. The study confirmed that the stored chemical is mainly aluminum sulfate, a weak acid or base, posing limited environmental danger at current concentrations. The findings support safe disposal or potential reuse by industries, emphasizing the importance of proper chemical handling to mitigate ecological risks. Overall, the study provides a basis for informed management of chemical waste in industrial settings, promoting environmental safety and sustainable practices.

Poor water quality index for groundwater in Pakistan is a pressing issue due to the increasing population, rapid urbanization, and industrialization. This has resulted in fertile and productive soil being converted to barren land, leading to significant reductions in infiltration rates and agricultural productivity. The aim of the study was to assess water quality monitoring in research areas of AARI using Water Quality Index (WQI) during the year 2023-24. Collected water samples (12 different sites) were analyzed at Soil and Water Testing Laboratory for Research, Faisalabad for WQI by using various physicochemical characteristics like EC, TDS, Cl, SAR and RSC. Electrical Conductivity (EC) for all 12 samples varied between 787 to 3529 µS/cm. On the basis of Fitness criteria water samples from only 2 sites S1 and S8 were under “fit” category, 3 sites (S4, S5, S12) were under “marginally fit” and remaining all samples were “unfit” for Irrigation because of high salt concentration (EC > 1250 µS cm -1 ). The WQI values obtained from the research areas ranged from 68.05 to 354.4. Samples were classified using the WQI classification criteria and it revealed that only 25% of the samples of the area were categorized as “good (WQI range 50-100),” 50% were rated as “poor” (WQI range 101-200), and the remaining 25% were classified as “very poor” (WQI range 201-300) quality water.

Introduction: Arm amputations, caused primarily by trauma or vascular diseases, are often treated through complex replantation surgeries. This procedure involves challenges such as the presence of crush injuries, vascular and nerve damage, and the need for timely intervention to optimize functional recovery. Case Report: Our patient, 27-year-old male, presented with a traumatic left above-elbow amputation following a soil testing machine accident. Immediate surgical intervention was necessary, involving a multidisciplinary approach. The orthopedic team performed bone stabilization, while vascular and hand surgeons addressed complex soft tissue, vascular, and nerve injuries. The vascular team performed a reversed saphenous vein graft for the brachial artery, and nerve repairs were conducted under a microscope. The patient also underwent a subsequent procedure for fracture fixation and skin grafting. Conclusion: This report emphasizes the importance of early replantation, particularly in the presence of crush injuries, to restore function and minimize complications.

Developing free swell index of soil test as smart experiment in virtual geotechnical engineering laboratory

Efficient nutrient management is essential to enhance maize productivity while conserving soil fertility. Soil test crop response (STCR)-based targeted yield equations enable soil- and yield-specific fertilizer recommendations; however, their validation across agroclimatic zones and with emerging inputs, such as nano di-ammonium phosphate (nano-DAP), remains limited. This study evaluated the transferability of STCR prescriptions using conventional fertilizers, nano-DAP and farmyard manure (FYM) in farmers' fields in the Southern Transition Zone (STZ) (Shivamogga), Karnataka. A rabi 2024 verification trial was conducted using the maize hybrid MAH 14-5 in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with seven treatments: STCR targets (90 and 100 q ha-1) ± FYM, general recommended dose (GRD), soil fertility rating (SFR) and control. STCR NPK + FYM (100 q ha-1) recorded the highest kernel yield (97.82 q ha-1) and stover yield (145.75 q ha-1), along with maximum nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) uptake (302.72, 23.48 and 155.98 kg ha-1, respectively). Integrated STCR + FYM treatments also achieved a superior response yardstick (24.00 kg kg-1) and improved nutrient-use efficiency indices (AE-N: 40; RE-N: 0.70). All treatments recorded value cost ratio (VCR) > 2, confirming the economic feasibility of the integrated treatment. Nutrient balance analysis indicated positive K balance but consistent P depletion and variable N balances, highlighting the need for organic amendments. Soil test crop response -based nutrient management, particularly when combined with FYM and nano-DAP, improved yield, nutrient uptake and efficiency, demonstrating its applicability across zones and emphasizing the need for long-term P management strategies.

The main barrier to greater crop output is unpredictability of soil nutrients. It’s necessary to produce location-specific information on status of soil nutrients. This study aimed to develop and validate Geographical Information System (GIS)-based spatial fertilizer recommendation maps using Soil Test Crop Response (STCR) equations for improving rice yield and nutrient management in the command area. The nutrients used to achieve the intended yield are significantly reduced by STCR equation integrated with fertiliser recommendation maps. Gathered 59 composite soil samples in the Hosahalli village tank command area of Hassan district, Karnataka (India) and plotted the nutrient recommendations for desired yields in GIS platform. The interpolation technique was used to create the ready reckoner nutrient tables and nutrient recommendation maps for rice production. Executed a field experiment in farmer's fields of command area in kharif 2021 based on the recommended maps to achieve the targeted yields of 40, 50 and 60 q ha-1 compared with farmer's practice at different organic carbon levels. The study area was acidic, normal EC, low in OC and available P, moderate in available N and K. STCR fertilizer recommendation for 60 q ha-1 targeted yield has recorded higher grain and straw yields. The STCR fertilizer recommendation for 60 q ha-1 target yield increased grain yield by 68 % (53.59 q ha-1 compared to 31.89 q ha-1) and straw yield by 48 % (80.36 q ha-1 compared to 54.12 q ha-1) over farmer practice while reducing fertilizer usage. The rice growth, yield and nutrient uptake were significantly impacted by the fertiliser recommendations for targeted yields. The farmer's precise target yield was achieved with far less fertiliser owing to the thematic nutrient recommendation maps.

ABSTRACT Scientific nutrient management is critical for maintaining soil fertility and sustaining agricultural productivity, yet inefficient fertilizer application remains widespread in many low-income settings. Using primary survey data and soil test results from paddy rice farmers in Nepal, this study examines the prevalence and determinants of such inefficiencies. We document substantial deviations between farmers’ actual fertilizer use and scientifically recommended levels. On average, farmers apply phosphorus in amounts exceeding optimal requirements by about 40%, while nitrogen and potassium are applied at levels roughly 20% and 15% below their respective optima. Moreover, prior exposure to agricultural training and greater opportunities for social learning are associated with smaller nutrient deviations and a higher likelihood of efficient application. These findings highlight the importance of extension services and peer-based learning mechanisms in improving agronomic practices and agricultural productivity.