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Soil Fertility Indicators
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Exchangeable Potassium (K) Level
Determined by atomic absorption spectrometry or flame photometry; important for osmoregulation and activating enzymes.
Base Saturation Percentage
Calculated from the CEC and the amounts of major base cations present; it indicates the proportion of soil CEC occupied by key nutrient cations.
Soil Texture
Evaluated by feel or particle size analysis (hydrometer method); affects water holding capacity, aeration, and root penetration.
Micronutrient Levels
Measured using techniques like DTPA extraction followed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry; critical in small quantities for plant health.
Phosphorus (P) Availability
Measured by soil test kits using colorimetric methods or spectrometry; essential for energy transfer and root development.
Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC)
Measured in milliequivalents per 100 grams of soil; reflects the soil's ability to hold onto essential positively charged ions (cations).
Electrical Conductivity (EC)
Measured in dS/m using an EC meter; it quantifies the soil's salinity which can impact plant growth and microorganism activity.
Soil pH
Measured using a pH meter or litmus paper; indicates the acidity or alkalinity of the soil, which affects nutrient availability to plants.
Organic Matter Content
Measured by loss-on-ignition or wet chemistry methods; signifies the soil's capacity to retain moisture and store nutrients.
Nitrate-Nitrogen (NO₃-N) Levels
Measured in mg/kg using soil tests; indicates the immediately available nitrogen in the soil for plant uptake, a crucial nutrient for growth.
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