Soil fertility evaluation using nutrient index approach

A detailed soil fertility status of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), farm was investigated during 2019 to prepare fertility map and fertilizer recommendations for different crops. Total 37 numbers of geo-referenced (GPS based) composite surface soil samples (0-15cm) were collected from 4 soil unit of KVK farm located at Bharari, Jhansi. Soils were analyzed for pH, EC, organic carbon, available phosphorus, potassium, sulphur and micronutrients i.e., B, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn. The soil reaction was found slightly acidic to slightly alkaline in nature while EC was found to be in safe range for crop production. About 11 per cent of samples were very low, low (54%) and medium (35%)in category of soil organic carbon. The mean available soil P, K and S was found to be 20, 267 kg/ha and 21ppm, respectively. Soil micronutrient content such as Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn and B were found to be sufficient. The maps indicate the fertility status of KVK farm based on which fertilizer recommendation for crops are made leading to economy of fertilizer and balanced applications and serve as the decision making tool for successful raising of field crops in Bundelkhand region.