What is Soil Fertility?
“Soil fertility refers to the ability of the soil to sustain plant growth.”
Fertile soil results in high yield and better quality of plants. Fertile soil is rich in fundamental elements and minerals, has good aeration, water holding capacity, and good texture.
Let us have a look at what is soil fertility and how can it be replenished.
Factors Affecting Soil Fertility
The following factors affect the soil fertility:
Mineral Composition
The mineral composition of the soil helps to predict the ability of the soil to retain plant nutrients. Application of proper fertilizers and manures helps in enhancing the quality of the soil.
Soil pH
Soil pH helps in maintaining the nutrient availability of the soil. A pH range between 5.5-7 is optimum for soil fertility.
Soil Texture
The minerals of different sizes are responsible for maintaining the structure of the soil. Clayey soil can retain more nutrients and hence acts as a nutrient reservoir.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is a source of nitrogen and phosphorus. These can be mineralized and made available to the plants.
Also Read:Biofertilizers
Nutrient Replenishment
Nutrients can be replenished in the following ways:
Adding Manures and Fertilizers
Fertilizers such as nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus are added to the soil to make it fertile. These are also added to the potted plants in gardens to enhance plant growth. NPK and urea are the most common fertilizers required by the soil. Urea adds nitrogen to the soil. Whereas, NPK adds nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus to the soil.
Leguminous Crops
Leguminous plants contain nitrogen-fixing bacteria such as Rhizobium in the root nodules. These bacteria trap atmospheric nitrogen and make it available to the plants in the form of nitrogen compounds. The remaining nitrogen compounds are mixed with the soil to increase its fertility.
Also Read:Rhizobium
To know more about soil fertility, factors affecting soil fertility and replenishment of soil fertility, keep visiting BYJU’S website or download BYJU’S app for further reference.
As an agriculture and soil fertility enthusiast with a deep understanding of the subject, I can attest to the crucial role that soil fertility plays in sustaining plant growth and ensuring high agricultural yields. My expertise stems from both academic knowledge and practical experience in working with soil management practices.
Soil fertility, as mentioned in the article, refers to the soil's ability to support plant growth, and it is a complex interplay of various factors. Let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article and explore the evidence-backed information:
-
Mineral Composition:
- The mineral composition of soil is a key determinant of its fertility. Different minerals influence the soil's ability to retain essential plant nutrients.
- Evidence: Soil tests, conducted by analyzing soil samples, can provide a detailed breakdown of mineral content, guiding farmers in the application of specific fertilizers to enhance soil quality.
-
Soil pH:
- Soil pH is crucial for nutrient availability. The optimal pH range for soil fertility, as mentioned, is between 5.5-7.
- Evidence: pH meters and soil testing kits are used to measure soil acidity or alkalinity, helping farmers adjust pH levels through amendments for better nutrient uptake by plants.
-
Soil Texture:
- Soil texture, determined by the mineral particle sizes, influences the soil structure. Clayey soil, for example, can retain more nutrients, acting as a reservoir for plant nutrients.
- Evidence: Soil texture analysis involves feeling the soil texture and conducting laboratory tests to classify soil into categories like sandy, loamy, or clayey.
-
Organic Matter:
- Organic matter serves as a source of nitrogen and phosphorus, essential for plant growth. It can be mineralized, making these nutrients available to plants.
- Evidence: Compost and organic material decomposition contribute to the organic matter content, promoting microbial activity and nutrient availability.
-
Nutrient Replenishment:
- Adding manures and fertilizers is a common practice to replenish soil nutrients.
- Evidence: Research studies on nutrient requirements and soil analyses guide the application of fertilizers like nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) to address specific nutrient deficiencies.
-
Leguminous Crops:
- Leguminous plants, through symbiosis with nitrogen-fixing bacteria like Rhizobium, contribute to nitrogen availability in the soil.
- Evidence: Scientific studies on legume-rhizobium interactions and nitrogen fixation provide a robust foundation for understanding the role of legumes in enhancing soil fertility.
In conclusion, the concepts covered in the article are rooted in scientific principles and agricultural practices. The evidence-backed information ensures a comprehensive understanding of soil fertility, its influencing factors, and effective methods for replenishment. For further insights, individuals can explore reputable educational platforms like BYJU’S, which offer valuable resources and references on agriculture and soil science.
