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Soil Fertility and Management
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Flashcards
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Organic Matter Content
Organic matter improves soil structure, water holding capacity, and nutrient supply. It can be improved by adding compost, manure, or green manure crops.
Calcium Content
Calcium is important for cell wall structure and growth. Amendments like gypsum and lime can supply calcium while also helping to manage soil pH.
Soil Texture
Soil texture affects water drainage and nutrient retention. It is determined by the proportions of sand, silt, and clay. Amendments like gypsum can improve heavy clay soils.
Phosphorus Availability
Phosphorus is important for energy transfer and root development. Solubility issues can be managed with proper pH adjustment and use of rock phosphate or bone meal.
Microbial Activity
Soil microbes facilitate nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition. Enhancements include avoiding excessive tillage, providing organic matter, and proper fertilization.
Electrical Conductivity (EC)
EC measures soil salinity, which can affect plant growth. Mitigation strategies include leaching with clean water and avoiding excessive fertilizer use.
Soil pH
Soil pH affects nutrient availability and microbial activity. It can be managed by adding lime to increase pH or sulfur to decrease pH.
Water Holding Capacity
The soil's ability to retain moisture impacts drought resistance. Organic matter and proper soil structure support greater water holding capacity.
Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC)
CEC is a measure of the soil's ability to hold and exchange cations (positively charged ions). Improving organic matter and using clay amendments can enhance CEC.
Magnesium Levels
Magnesium is a component of chlorophyll and is essential for photosynthesis. It can be supplemented with dolomitic lime or Epsom salts.
Soil Bulk Density
Soil bulk density influences root growth and water infiltration. Practices like reducing compaction and using organic amendments can help lower bulk density.
Soil Structure
The arrangement of soil particles into aggregates affects root penetration and air/water movement. Management includes minimal tillage, cover cropping, and organic amendments.
Potassium Levels
Potassium is crucial for plant water use and stress tolerance. Soil levels can be improved with potash fertilizers or greensand.
Trace Element Profile
Trace elements like zinc, copper, and boron are essential in small quantities. Foliar sprays and soil amendments can correct deficiencies.
Nitrogen Content
Nitrogen is essential for plant growth and is often a limiting nutrient. It can be managed with the use of legume cover crops, organic fertilizers, and appropriate synthetic fertilizers.
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