Agriculture & Horticulture

Soil Health & Fertility Management

Soil health and fertility management are essential for maintaining productive and sustainable agricultural systems. Healthy soil provides the necessary nutrients, water retention capacity, and biological activity required for optimal plant growth, ensuring long-term agricultural productivity while minimizing environmental degradation. Soil health refers to the biological, physical, and chemical properties of soil that support plant and microbial life. A well-balanced soil ecosystem improves nutrient cycling, enhances water infiltration, and increases resilience to pests and diseases. Fertility management, on the other hand, focuses on maintaining and replenishing essential nutrients to support crop growth while preventing soil depletion. Adding compost, manure, and cover crops improves soil structure, increases microbial diversity, and enhances nutrient availability. Growing different crops in succession prevents nutrient depletion, disrupts pest cycles, and improves soil fertility. Reducing soil disturbance preserves soil structure, prevents erosion, and maintains microbial activity essential for nutrient cycling. Using mycorrhizal fungi, nitrogen-fixing bacteria, and organic fertilizers enhances soil nutrient levels without relying on synthetic chemicals.