Study on Spatial Variability of Soil Properties to Guide the Efficient Use of Resources

Abstract

Soil fertility and nutrient management influence agricultural productivity and hence food security and livelihood. The results reflect that inherent fertility status of the study area was low overall. Rawal et al. [27] noted similar findings in their study of Sunsari district of Nepal. Nutrient mining (extracting more nutrients than are returned) is a key factor in impoverishing the soil. The deteriorating soil fertility cannot be ameliorated only by green manuring and use of legumes. Using them in conjunction with mineral fertilizers can have a greater sustainable impact. Soils and their management options are site and situation-specific. The prepared spatial distribution and fertility maps will aid farmers and planners in understanding the existing soil conditions and making judicious decisions to better manage the soil for sustainability and productivity.