An Asian Journal of Soil Science

V. Mini ¹, Usha Mathew ²

Affiliations
1 Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture (K.A.U.), Vellayani, Trivandrum (Kerala), IN
2 Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture (K.A.U.), Vellayani, Trivandrum (Kerala), IN

Abstract

The present investigation was carried out at College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala to develop the nutrient management strategies for Onattukara sandy tract of Kerala. The overall fertility status of this region indicated that the soil was strongly acidic with high level of phosphorus and low organic carbon and potassium. Excess levels of phosphorus and wide spread deficiencies of calcium, magnesium boron and zinc are the major limitations to crop production in this region. Management of soil acidity is essential for successful crop production in the region. Liming of acid soils in accordance with soil test results is highly essential. Regular application of organic matter or recycling of organic matter is essential to maintain favourable physico-chemical and biological environment in the soils and retention of applied plant nutrients. Restrict the use of nitrogenous (N) fertilizers in accordance with soil test results or as recommended in the package of practices of Kerala Agricultural University. Reduction in the use of phosphatic (P) fertilizers to the tune of fifty per cent of the recommended dose is possible. Apply potassium (K) fertilizers in doses specified, but in several splits to minimize the leaching losses. Amelioration of soil acidity and external inputs of secondary and micronutrients along with the NPK nutrients are essential for enhancing crop productivity in the region.

Keywords

Coconut, Cropping System, Nutrient Management Plan, Onattukara, Sandy Tract.

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V. Mini ¹, Usha Mathew ²

Affiliations
1 Onattukara Regional Agricultural Research Station (K.A.U.), Kayamkulam (Kerala), IN
2 Department of Soil Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuaram (Kerala), IN

Abstract

The sandy plain region of Kerala comprises a unique agro ecological unit designated as Onattukara sandy plain (AEU 3). The main cropping system prevailing in this region is coconut based cropping system in the upland. In the existing perennial plantations like coconut, soil fertility evaluation will help to identify the existing crop nutrition related constraints for formulating suitable nutrient management strategies. Therefore, this study was conducted with the objectives of identifying and mapping the spatial distribution of soil nutrient deficiencies for site specific nutrient management. Soil samples from 200 geo referenced sites were analyzed for available macro and micro nutrients. The nutrient deficiency maps developed can be used for macro and micronutrient management to address steady decline in the yield of coconut in the region through balanced nutrition. Yield gap of coconut in Onattukara region is 207.69 per cent. Thematic maps showed low organic carbon status in 74.2 per cent, P in 0.6 per cent and K in 82.6 per cent area. Ca and Mg deficiency were observed in 96.8 per cent area and S deficiency in 8.6 per cent area. Fe and Mn were observed to be sufficient. Zinc was found to be deficient in 90.3 per cent, Cu in 73.5 per cent and B in 93.1 per cent area of this sandy tract.

Keywords

Coconut, Constraints, GIS, Mapping, Sandy Tract, Soil Nutrient Status.

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