Asian Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition

Nutrient Use Efficiency in Maize (Zea mays): Response to Organic-Inorganic Phosphorus Substitutions in Western Kenya

Modeste Hatangimana — 2025-10-27

Aims: The degrading soil fertility and inefficient application of fertilizers limit the production of sustainable maize in sub-Saharan Africa. The objective of the study was to determine the effects of substituting organic and inorganic phosphorus sources (P) on nutrient uptake and the effectiveness of their use in maize production in western Kenya under varying Agro-ecological conditions.

Study Design: The experimental layout was a randomized complete block design with 14 treatments involving the substitution of triple super phosphate (TSP) fertilizer by pressmud (PM) and cattle manure (CM) at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% of the 30 kg P ha^-1 rate, replicated three times.

Place and Duration of Study: Field experiments were conducted at Kibos and Bumula in western Kenya, during the long rain season of 2021.

Methodology: Soils were sampled to determine pH, C, N, P, and K contents. Composted pressmud and cattle manure was also analysed to establish nutrient. Agronomic data, including plant growth, grain and stover yield, were recorded and data analyzed using ANOVA.

Results: Findings showed that the 50% substitution of TSP by both PM and CM, i.e., TSP15 + PM15 and TSP15 + CM15, was superior in terms of nitrogen and phosphorus uptake, agronomic efficiency indices (AEN, REN, AEP, REP), and grain yield compared to either organic or inorganic application alone.

Conclusion: The gains in efficiency were site-specific, which depended on soil fertility and climatic variation. Results highlight the potential benefits of using Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) to improve nutrient use efficiency, minimize input inefficiencies, and enhance climate-resilient maize systems. The research paper gives new evidence on the P source integration approaches to sustainable intensification.

Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Enhance P Uptake and Use Efficiency of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in Ferralsols: A Study at Uasin Gishu County, Kenya

Anne Njoki — 2025-11-04

Deficiency of macro and micronutrients is a major challenge to sustainable wheat production. Integrating biostimulants such as Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) and inorganic fertilisers has been shown to enhance wheat production by optimising their mutual benefits. However, integration of AMF and micronutrients has not been prioritised, especially in low-input systems. Thus, a two-season field study was conducted at the University of Eldoret farm, Uasin Gishu County, Kenya, to evaluate the integrated effect of AMF concoctions with phosphorus (P) and copper (Cu) fertilisers on nutrient uptake, use efficiency, and productivity in wheat. The different levels of P, Cu, and AMF were combined. The treatments were laid out in a Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) and replicated three times. Two levels of AMF (0 and 60 L ha^-1) were applied with three levels of P: 0 kg, 8.8 kg, and 17.6 kg ha^-1, and three levels of Cu: 0 kg, 5 kg, and 10 kg ha^-1. Generalised linear models (GLM) were used to test the effects of AMF and fertiliser type on soil chemical properties and crop performance indices. Two- and three-way interactions between the three factors were also tested. Results show that AMF did not have significant impact on soil available P, while available Cu increased by 32% - 40% compared to the control. AMF also enhanced P and Cu uptake by 27 - 30% and 24 - 38%, respectively. Furthermore, AMF increased P and Cu use efficiency by about 15 - 31% and 18 - 35% above the plots without AMF, respectively. Co-application of P at 8.8 kg ha^-1 and 60 L AMF ha^-1recorded the highest wheat grain yield of 2.84 and 4.72 Mg ha^-1during the 2018 and 2019 long rain seasons, respectively. The study shows that the use of AMF could play a significant role in reducing the amount of inorganic P fertilisers while increasing wheat grain yield. This study recommends co-application of 60 L AMF and 8.8 kg P ha^-1 for improving P nutrition and grain yield in wheat.

Adsorption Behaviour of Pyrithiobac Sodium in Cotton Growing Soils of Telangana state, India

Ramprakash T — 2025-11-05

The environmental behaviour of herbicides is largely determined by sorption–desorption and dissipation processes that regulate their persistence, bioavailability, and mobility in soil. Herbicides that are weakly adsorbed are more prone to leaching and runoff losses, leading to possible groundwater contamination, while strongly adsorbed compounds may persist longer and cause carryover injury to succeeding crops. Thus, understanding the sorption–desorption and dissipation behaviour of herbicides under specific soil and climatic conditions is critical for devising safe and efficient weed management strategies. The present study was conducted to examine the adsorption and dissipation behaviour of pyrithiobac-sodium in representative red and black soils of Telangana State, India, which differ in texture, organic matter, and cation exchange capacity (CEC). The adsorption of pyrithiobac-sodium was studied using the batch equilibrium method as per OECD guidelines. Soil samples were equilibrated with pyrithiobac-sodium solutions of varying concentrations (0–50 µg mL⁻¹) at 27 ± 1°C. Adsorption data were fitted to the Freundlich equation to describe the isotherm characteristics. Results revealed that adsorption increased with equilibrium concentration in both soils. At the lowest concentration (5 µg mL⁻¹), the amount adsorbed was 1.06 µg g⁻¹ in red soil and 1.62 µg g⁻¹ in black soil, whereas at the highest concentration (50 µg mL⁻¹), it increased to 7.41 and 14.41 µg g⁻¹, respectively. The Freundlich model provided an excellent fit (R² > 0.95). The K_f values were 0.26 and 0.36, while K_d values were 0.19 and 0.39 for red and black soils, respectively. The black soil, with higher clay and CEC, exhibited greater sorption capacity, whereas red soil showed higher mobility potential due to its coarse texture and low organic carbon. Pyrithiobac-sodium displayed weak overall sorption, suggesting higher leaching potential in coarse-textured soils. These results highlight the significance of soil properties in predicting herbicide fate and guiding site-specific management in Telangana’s cotton-growing regions.

Effect of AB Mix Substitution with Liquid Organic Fertilizer on N, P and K Levels in Hydroponically Grown Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)

Ellok Dwi Sulichantini — 2025-11-08

This research aimed to analyze the levels of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) plant tissue cultivated using a wick hydroponic system, using two types of AB Mix nutrients (Goodplant and Meroke) substituted with Fortune liquid organic fertilizer (LOF) in various proportions. The research evaluated the effect of substitution on plant macronutrient content and compared the effectiveness of the two types of AB Mix. The research was conducted by analyzing lettuce plant tissue cultivated hydroponically using two types of AB Mix (Goodplant and Meroke) and the proportions of LOF substitution (0%, 25%, 50%, and 75%). The results of the research showed that partial substitution of AB Mix with LOF affected the N, P, and K content of plant tissue. In general, the highest levels of N, P, and K were obtained in the treatment without LOF substitution, indicating that AB Mix remains the primary source of macronutrients for lettuce plants. The proportion of AB Mix substitution LOF affected the macronutrient content of plants. Increasing the proportion of LOF tended to decrease the N and P levels, while the K levels showed fluctuations. This indicates that LOF has an unbalanced nutrient content to fully replace AB Mix as the primary nutrient source in hydroponic systems. A comparison between the two types of AB Mix showed that Goodplant produced relatively higher levels of N and K in plant tissue than Meroke, while the P levels tended to be balanced between the two.

Optimisation of Nutrient Sources for Improving Growth, Yield, and Quality of Yardlong Bean (Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesuipedalis L.)

M. Ramanjineyulu — 2025-11-08

In India, vegetable production is not sufficient to meet the requirements of the growing population, and the extent of cultivated land is also limited. Therefore, the potential of vegetable production must be fully exploited through the intensification of improved agronomic practices. Among the different vegetables cultivated in India, vegetable cowpea or yard long bean (Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis L.) holds an important place due to its high nutritional value and wide consumer preference, making yield and quality significant factors. The paper aims to optimise nutrient sources for improving growth, yield, and quality of yardlong bean. A field experiment was conducted during June 2024 at the Olericulture Block of Sri Krishnadevaraya College of Horticultural Sciences, Ananthapuramu, to evaluate the effects of organic manures, inorganic fertilizers, biochar and bioinoculants on the growth and yield of yard long bean (Vigna unguiculata subsp. Sesquipedalis L.) under semi-arid conditions. The trial was laid out in a randomised block design (RBD) with 18 treatments replicated thrice. The treatments included control, rhizobium inoculation, different levels of NPK, farmyard manure (FYM), vermicompost, biochar and their various combinations. Significant variation was observed among treatments for vegetative, reproductive and yield traits. The treatment T₁₈ (35:70:35 NPK kg ha^-1 + 4 t ha^-1 biochar) recorded the maximum vine length (532.87 cm), leaf area index (3.42), dry matter production (2632.17 g plant^-1), minimum days to flowering (32.96 days) and the highest number of leaves (219.76) and pods (66.3) per plant. It also produced the longest pods (54.76 cm), greatest pod girth (3.28 cm), maximum pod weight (15.32 g), highest number of seeds per pod (12.82) and the maximum yield (3812.37 kg ha^-1). In contrast, the control (T₁) consistently recorded the lowest values across parameters. The findings clearly demonstrate that the integrated application of 35:70:35 NPK kg ha^-1 with 4 t ha^-1 biochar is highly effective in enhancing growth and yield performance of yard long bean under semi-arid conditions. From the present study, it can be concluded that the application of organic manures or inorganic fertilizers alone did not produce significant improvements in the growth and yield parameters of yard long bean. Treatments involving organic fertilizers showed better performance than the control, while increasing fertilizer dosage further enhanced growth and yield attributes.

Response of Orange Seedlings to Soil Addition of Some Organic Wastes, Vermicomposting Extract and Foliar Nutrient Amino-F24

A. A. A. Hadi — 2025-11-08

An experiment was carried out in a shaded private nursery located in Awfi, Babylon Province, from October 1, 2023, to June 1, 2024, to investigate the one-year growth response of orange seedlings. The experiment was based on three experimental factors. The first factor included soil application of organic fertilizers at three levels; the control, poultry manure at 500 g L⁻¹ and cow manure at 500 g L⁻¹and. The second factor was the application of vermicompost extract at two levels via soil and control, 10 ml L⁻¹. The third factor consisted of foliar spraying of AMINO F24 at three levels; the control, 5 ml L⁻¹, and 10 ml L⁻¹. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The data were analyzed using Genstat 2010 software, and the Least Significant Difference at a 5% level was used for mean comparison. It was done to detect the interaction or main effect of factors. The control or untreated plants exhibited the lowest values. On the other hand, control plants showed the lowest values in most studied parameters.

Nutrient Uptake, Concentration and Protein Content of Bread Wheat as Affected by Nitrogen, Sulfur and Phosphorus Interactions

Assefa Menna — 2025-11-10

Field experiments were conducted in six sites to investigate the concentrations of nitrogen (N), sulfur (S), and phosphorus (P); their uptake; and the grain protein-contents including the grain yield (GY) of bread-wheat in central Ethiopia. The experiments were laid-out in RCBD in triplicate. The mean values of these elements in wheat grain responded significantly to their respective nutrient applications. In total, there were (n=144) entries across locations. Nutrient-concentrations varied spatially ranging between 1.10–2.35% (N); 0.06–0.21% (S); and 0.01–0.16% (P). Similarly, their respective nutrient-uptakes ranged between 7.42–137.55 kg/ha; 0.38–11.87 kg/ha; and 0.08–9.88 kg/ha. But, the protein-concentrations in wheat-flour varied between 6.44–13.71%. At the specific sites, the mean N-concentration in wheat-grain and its uptake were responded significantly to the N supply (***P≤ .001). Meanwhile, the S concentration and uptake were responded to both N and S supplies (**P≤ .01). But the P concentration and its uptake were responded mainly to the interaction-effects N×S×P; N×P; and to a lesser extent to the sole-P application (*P≥ .05). Similarly, the grain protein-concentration was influenced by the interaction-effects N×S×P, N×S, N×P; and by the sole-N and sole-S applications, in a decreasing order of significance. In this analysis, it is noted that the N-concentration and its uptake in the grain were considerably higher than those of S and P. It was furthermore noted that the wheat grain-protein content was strongly correlated with the native-soil N (r= +0.99); S (r= +0.81); and P (r= +0.37), suggesting their degree of significance in protein-synthesis. Under external-supply conditions, the treatment-effects also followed clear gradations in the plant-components formation with the CK≤ S≤ P≤ SP< N< NS< NP≤ NPS. However, the observed changes in the overall plant-variables are likely to be influenced not only by the soil-conditions, but also by plant-factors, environmental-factors and the farming-practices among others, necessitating their further investigations even at the partial-factor level. Especially, the effects of N, S, and P; and even other-nutrients on the true-protein composition and other quality attributes merit further study.

Soil Physicochemical Properties and Nutritional Quality of Worowo (Senecio biafrae) in Soils Treated with Neem-Enriched Cow Dung/Sawdust Compost

Folasade Oluwafisayo ADEYEMI — 2025-11-11

Aims: This study examined the dynamics of soil nutrients and nutritional quality of worowo (Senecio biafrae) using cow dung/sawdust compost enriched with neem meal.

Study Design: The experimental design was Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD).

Place and Duration of Study: The study site was the Teaching and Research Farm of Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria, between March and October, in years 2020 and 2021.

Methodology: In two seasons, 20 cm worowo vines were planted in 8m² beds, with six treatments replicated four times. NPK 15-15-15 at 60 kg N/ha was contrasted with CDSNM (60 g N/kg) applied at 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 t/ha. The organic treatments were applied at two weeks before planting, and NPK applied two weeks after planting. Soil’s attributes and nutritional contents of worowo were measured at 180 days after planting in the two seasons. Soil and vegetable sample were collected, prepared, and taken to the laboratory for analysis.

Results: Soil’s attributes were enhanced by the addition of CDSNM. The SOM, N, P and K quantities in the first season were 15.5 g/kg, 1.4 g/kg, 15.5 mg/kg and 0.5 cmol/kg, which increased to 19.5 g/kg, 2.7 g/kg, 24.4 mg/kg and 1.3 cmol/kg respectively, in the second season. Worowo’s quality improved by the addition of the organic source. Vines produced by CDSNM applied at 40 t/ha had higher Crude-fibre (CF), protein, moisture, ash, and mineral contents than NPK and the other treatments, at both seasons. The CF contents were in the order: 40 t/ha-12.00±0.59> NPK-11.20±0.59> 30 t/ha-11.00±0.59> 20 t/ha-10.62±0.59>Control-10.50±0.59> 10 t/ha-10.45±0.59, which followed the same order at the second season.

Conclusion: The organic-N-enriched compost positively impacted the soil and nutritional quality (CF in particular), of worowo vegetables. Application of 40 t/ha of CDSNM could therefore be adopted for optimal production of more nutritious worowo vines.

Comparative Efficacy of Yellow and Blue Sticky Traps to Estimate the Population Density of Apple Blotch Leaf Miner (Leucoptera malifoliella) in the Kashmir Valley

Azhan Reyaz — 2025-11-20

Apple is among the leading temperate fruit crops, which faces considerable losses due to diseases and insect pests annually. Amongst the recently reported pests on apple, Apple blotch leaf miner (ABLM) has caused severe outbreaks in parts of the Shopian district, located in the North-Western Himalayan region of Kashmir. To devise effective management strategies, seasonal monitoring was carried out using yellow and blue sticky traps at seven sites (Zainapora, Aglar, Babapora, Reshipora, Durpora, Mujimarg, and Sofipora) from the 13th Standard Meteorological Week (SMW) (26 March–01 April) to the 45th SMW (05–11 November). Results indicated a clear bimodal population trend of the pest. Weekly trap counts (adults/5 traps) revealed an initial outbreak in early spring, with the highest capture in yellow traps at Zainapora (334.66 adults/5 traps with mean of 66.93 adults/trap at the 13^th SMW) and an overall mean of 242.37. This peak was followed by a sharp decline during May–June and a secondary increase in late summer, reaching a mean of 142.21 adults at the 35th SMW. Aglar recorded 262.33 adults /5traps (52.47adults/trap), Babapora had 335.16 adults/5traps (67.03 adults /trap), Reshipora showed 332.83 adults/ 5 traps (66.57 adults/trap), Durpora reported 194.83 adults/5traps (38.97adults/ trap), Mujimarg noted 135.00 adults/5 traps (27.00 adults/ trap), and Sofipora, which had a peak shifted to SMW 35, recorded 104.23 adults/5traps (20.85 adults/trap).Blue traps exhibited the same temporal pattern but recorded lower catches, with a maximum of 85.33 at Zainapora in the 13th SMW (mean 65.71) and a modest secondary rise in late September (mean 13.56 at the 39^th SMW). Spatial variation was marked, with Zainapora and Aglar consistently showing higher pest densities than other locations. The findings suggest that while blue traps can serve as supportive indicators, yellow sticky traps provide greater sensitivity for early detection. Overall, the study underscores the value of integrating site-specific trap-based thresholds with local weather and crop growth data to fine-tune intervention timings, reduce unnecessary pesticide applications, and highlights two critical monitoring windows: late March–early April and late August–September. To reduce chemical inputs and improve early detection of ABLM outbreaks, the study supports the integration of yellow sticky traps into precision-based IPM frameworks.

Land Use Based Soil Site Suitability Assessment for Cereal and Oilseed Crops in Bada Micro Watershed (4D4F2j05) of Haveri District, Karnataka, India

B. Harshith Surya — 2025-11-21

This study aimed to evaluate the soil site suitability of forest, barren, agricultural and horticultural land use systems within the Bada micro watershed of Haveri district, located in the Northern Transition Zone (Zone 8) of Karnataka. A base map (1:7,920 scale) integrated with satellite imagery was used to identify and excavate eight soil profiles, two from each land use system. Morphological features were recorded and horizon wise samples were analyzed for physical and chemical properties. The suitability of these land use systems for major cereal (paddy, maize, sorghum) and oilseed (groundnut, soybean, sunflower) crops was subsequently evaluated using the limitation method. This assessment considered factors such as oxygen availability to roots, nutrient availability, rooting conditions, soil toxicity and erosion as primary criteria. Crop suitability maps were generated using ArcGIS software. The findings revealed that across forest, agricultural and horticultural land use systems, crop suitability ranged from highly suitable (S1) to marginally suitable (S3). Specifically, 33.17% of the total area was classified as highly suitable (S1) for the cultivation of the sorghum crop. In contrast, 52.25% of the area was classified as marginally suitable (S3) for paddy cultivation, while 1.36% of the area was determined to be marginally suitable (S3) for the production of maize, sorghum, soybean and sunflower. These findings establish a fundamental understanding of soil constraints, providing critical insights that inform the selection of suitable crops specifically adapted to the study region.

Influence of Nutrient Management Practices and Crop Intensification on Yield, Economic Returns, and Energy Use in Conservation Agriculture-Based Rice–Maize Cropping Systems

Bidusi Tripathy — 2025-11-22

Aims: This study evaluates the impact of different nutrient management practices on the yield, economics, and energy use efficiency in a conservation agriculture (CA)-based rice–maize cropping system.

Study Design: Split plot Design.

Place and Duration of Study: Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Central Rice Research Institute, Cuttack 753 006, Odisha; 2-year experiment (2022-23 and 2023-24).

Methodology: Main plot was allotted with four production systems: Conventional + Sole Crop (CSC), Conventional + Inter Crop (CIC), Conservation agriculture + Sole Crop (CASC) and Conservation agriculture + Inter Crop (CAIC); sub-plot with three nutrient management strategy: Recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) (N_R), 25 % N (N₂₅) and 50 % N (N₅₀) based substitution of RDF with farm yard manure (FYM) replicated thrice.

Results: Results showed that 25% N based substitution of RDF with farm yard manure has significantly higher the grain yield, profitability, and energy productivity while reducing the energy input cost compared to sole chemical or 50% N based substitution.

Conclusion: Conservation agriculture combined with optimal nutrient strategies proves effective for sustainable intensification of rice–maize systems.

Efficiency of Some Pesticides and Botanicals in Controlling the Two-spotted Spider Mite Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) on Lemon Trees

Hussein Rasim Saboori Naji — 2025-11-22

This study was conducted for examine pesticides Oxymatrin and Fenpyroximate, and hot aqueous extracts of Tephrosiasp and Populuseuphratica on the adult and egg stages of the two-spotted red mite Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae), on lemon plant Citrus limonL..As for the findings, chemical pesticide Fenpyroximatewas obviousin reduction T. urticae eggs hatching to 24.72 compared to the pesticide Oxymatrin which recorded a hatching rate of 28.06%. In general, the hatching rate decreased clearly with the effect of increasing the concentration of the pesticide. As for the case of adults, Fenpyroximate also recorded the highest mortality rate of 73.06 compared to the pesticide Oxymatrin which recorded 70.56%. The 3-day period after treatment was the best in the mortality rate of adults compared to the other time periods. The plant extracts also had a clear effect on the eggs and adults of the used mites, as the Tephrosiaweed recorded a higher effect than the P. euphratica extract on the hatching percentage with values of 73.06% and 76.39% respectively. Increasing the concentration of the plant extract to 1.5% led to the highest reduction in the hatching percentage. The mortality rate of adults recorded a clear increase due to the effect of the Hawira extract 47.71% compared to the Gharb grass which recorded 15.00% mortality which increased over the period of time after treatment with significant differences.

Study of the Effect of Organic Fertilizer and Proline on Some Chemical Indicators of Strawberry

Hussein M Shamran — 2025-11-24

A study was conducted at the nursery of the Najaf Agriculture Directorate from November 1, 2024, to March 25, 2025. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of adding Anti-Salting fertilizer at a concentration of (0, 5, and 10 ml.L^-1) and proline amino acid at (0, 50, and 100 mg.L^-1) to the strawberry Var. (Ruby Gem). Certain chemical indicators of strawberry seedlings were studied under the unventilated greenhouses. The experiment was implemented as a factorial experiment using a randomized complete block design. The number of treatments was nine, randomly distributed into three blocks. This resulted in a total of 27 experimental units. Means of vegetative and chemical characteristics were analyzed using GenStat (statistical analysis software). Means were compared using Duncan's multiple range test at the probability of 0.05. Application of the anti-salt fertilizer at the rate of 10 ml.L^-1 showed a significant effect on some chemical indicators of strawberry leaves over control treatments. These indicators include superiority in total chlorophyll content, carbohydrate content, nitrogen percentage (N%), and phosphorus percentage (P%). These indicators recorded 40.72 mg.100 g fresh weight ^-1, 29.8 mg. dry weight ^-1, 2.822%, and 2.079% respectively. Treating seedlings with proline (an amino acid) at a concentration of 100 mg L^-1 increased leaf content of total chlorophyll, leaf content of carbohydrate, phosphorus percentage in leaves, and total sugar content in fruits. These characteristics reached 31.30 mg L-100 fresh weight, 25.06 mg.L^-1 dry weight, 1.548%, and 19.45 mg.100 g fresh weight^-1, respectively.

Humic Acid-induced Changes in Soluble Cadmium and Associated Chemical Properties of Entisols and Inceptisols

Zainal Muktamar — 2025-11-25

Aims: The aim of the study was to determine the concentration of soluble Cd and selected chemical properties after the application of humic acid in Inceptisols and Entisols.

Study Design: The experiment used a completely randomized design (CRD) with 2 factors. The first factor was the soil sample (Entisols and Inceptisols), while the second factor was the rate of humic acid application, consisting of 0 g kg^-1(control); 10 g kg^-1; and 20 g kg^-1.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was located in Soil Science Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Bengkulu. Inceptisols were collected from Seginim, Air Nipis District, South Bengkulu Regency, Bengkulu Province and Entisols were sampled from Muara Bangka Hulu District, Bengkulu Province. Each treatment combination was repeated three times.

Methodology: Three hundred g of soil was treated with 100 mg kg^-1 Cd and placed in a 500 ml plastic glass. Humic acid was added according to the treatment and mixed homogeneously. The sample was maintained at field capacity moisture content by adding distilled water every day. Medium pH was monitored every week.

Results: Results showed that the application of humic acid to the rate of 20 g kg^-1 did not significantly reduce the solubility of Cd. Nonetheless, humic acid at the same rate increased soil pH by 23%, organic-C by 32% and CEC by 45% compared with the control. Entisols had higher soil pH and organic-C but lower CEC than Inceptisols. The concentration of soluble Cd was not significantly different between the two soil samples.

Conclusion: The findings indicates that while humic acid improves vital soil chemical properties, its effectiveness in immobilizing Cd may be dependent on application rate and soil types. Further optimization of humic acid formulations and management practices is necessary to improve Cd-contaminated soils.

Effect of Foliar Nutrition on Growth Parameters of Bhindi [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench]

Athira A. — 2025-11-27

A field experiment was conducted at the College of Agriculture, Padannakkad, Kasaragod, Kerala, during 2024–2025, to study the influence of foliar nutrition and its split application on growth attributes in bhindi. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with fourteen treatment combinations and three replications. Treatment had two main factors (i) Foliar nutrition F₁: Micro sol (2%), F₂: 19:19:19 (0.5%), F₃: Nano urea (0.4%), F₄: Supernatant solution of cow dung (10 %), F₅: 19:19:19 (0.5%) + Micro sol (2%), F₆: Nano urea (0.4%) + Micro sol (2%), F₇: Supernatant solution of cow dung (10 %) + Micro sol (2%) and (ii) Number of split applications S₁: 15 DAS, 30DAS and 45 DAS, S₂: 15DAS, 30DAS, 45 DAS and 60DAS. Results indicated that treatments varied significantly for all growth characteristics. F₅, comprising 19:19:19 (0.5%) + Micro sol (2%), had a maximum plant height, number of branches, leaf length, leaf width, and dry matter production, followed by Nano urea 0.4% + Micro sol 2% (F₆). Split applications at four intervals (S₂) were superior to three-split applications (S₁). The study clearly shows that the combined foliar application of 19:19:19 (0.5%) and Micro sol (2%) at four split intervals can enhance nutrient uptake and improve the growth attributes in bhindi.

Morphological and Quality Assessment of Drought-Tolerant Tea Clones in Bangladesh

Rashidul Hasan — 2025-12-06

Morphological characters and liquor quality of selected 8 tea (Camellia sinensis) clones were compared in the nurseries of Chandpore tea estate and Nalua tea estate, Habiganj district and Tea Germplasm Center of Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet from 2021 to 2024. Single leaf stem cuttings of 8 selected tea clones from 6 tea estates were collected and raised in two nurseries. Growth performance of cuttings was recorded with environmental parameters. The highest survivability rate was observed in C4 (78%), while the highest mortality rate was recorded in C5 (62%). Under 70% field capacity, C21 showed the best results in leaf number (93), where C7 and C11 showed the best results in leaf length (12cm). C11 showed the best results in leaf breadth (5cm). The highest number of branches was recorded in C7 (16). Survivability studies of 8 selected tea clones with 02 check varieties (BT2, BT19) were conducted at controlled conditions (screen-house) as well as at natural field conditions providing normal and supplementary watering with 03 replications. Treatment 1 was conducted with normal watering; 100% field capacity and Treatment 2 with supplementary watering; 70% field capacity. One of our main objectives was to evaluate drought tolerance of the tea clones where root performance played a vital role. Study of root was conducted from the initiation of root. C5 produced the highest root volume (132ml) where C19 had highest length of root (20.7cm). Data-logger was used to record the microclimatic data. In organoleptic taste, C7 was found as the best green tea producing clones among others.

Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Productivity and Profitability of Betel Vine (Piper betle L.) in the Coastal Region of Odisha

Debasis Sarangi — 2025-10-30

Integrated Nutrient Management not only ensures efficient nutrient utilisation but also enhances soil organic matter, microbial activity, and long-term ecological stability. Betel vine (Piper betle L.) is a perennial, dioecious, evergreen climber of the family Piperaceae, cultivated primarily for its leaves, which are valued for mastication, medicinal use, and cultural significance across South and Southeast Asia. An on-farm multi-location trial was conducted in three districts of Odisha, namely Ganjam, Balasore, and Jagatsinghpur, during Kharif 2021-22 and 2022-23 to evaluate the impact of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) on the growth and yield of betel vine (Piper betle L.) in the coastal region of Odisha.. The study aimed to identify the most suitable combination of organic and inorganic nutrient sources for optimising vine length, leaf yield, and overall economic benefits. The experiment was laid out in a Randomised Block Design (RBD) with three treatments and seven replications. Results revealed that the application of 50% NPK (STD), mustard oil cake (MoC) @ 1.5 t/ha, vermicompost (VC) @ 10 t/ha, and a consortia biofertilizer @ 12 kg/ha significantly improved vine length (4.86 m), leaf yield per vine (73.57 leaves), hundred fresh leaf weight (276.52 g), and total leaf yield per hectare per year (1,623,980 leaves). The findings suggest that integrating organic and inorganic fertilisers enhances betel vine productivity while maintaining soil health and sustainability. Based on the findings, it was concluded that betel vine recorded the highest vine length, number of leaves per vine, hundred fresh leaf weight, and leaf yield per hectare per year when treated with an integrated dose of fertiliser based on soil test values, along with mustard oil cake, vermicompost, and consortia biofertilizer.

Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis of Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Mill Sp]

Shashank M S — 2025-11-14

Background: Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] is a diploid species (2n = 2x= 22), often cross-pollinated, with a genome size of 833.1 Mbp. The inheritance of quantitative traits is often affected by variation in other traits, resulting from pleiotropy or genetic linkage. Understanding the relationships between yield and its components is crucial for developing effective selection strategies.

Aim: This study aimed to conduct correlation and association analyses for grain yield and yield-contributing features in order to select genotypes with acceptable attributes for use in crop improvement programs.

Methodology: The experiment was conducted in a Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The experiment was conducted at the Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station, Kathalagere, during Kharif 2024. The experimental material comprised 13 pigeonpea genotypes along with three checks (TS-3R, BRG-5, PRG-175). These were evaluated for ten characters namely days to 50 per cent flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, pod length (cm), 100 seed weight (g), protein content (g/100g) and seed yield per plant (g). Correlation and path analysis were estimated. Data was recorded and statistical analysis was carried out using R software.

Results: Association studies showed that seed yield per plant had a significant positive correlation with the number of pods per plant and was most strongly correlated with plant height, followed by days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, number of secondary branches per plant, and protein content. Direct selection for days to 50 per cent flowering, number of seeds per pod, pod length, number of pods per plant and plant height may be advantageous for selecting the high-yielding genotypes in pigeonpea. Indirect effects of the number of seeds per pod on seed yield via the days to 50 per cent flowering, 100 seed weight, protein content, plant height and number of secondary branches per plant. Therefore, this trait appears to be a key contributor to seed yield and should be a focus in selection programs aiming to increase seed yield.

Conclusion: Through this study, it is clear that yield improvement programs could prioritise traits like the number of secondary branches per plant, number of seeds per pod, number of pods per plant, plant height and seed yield per plant in breeding programmes.

Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Productivity of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Vindhyan Hill

Ajay Shankar Jaiswal — 2025-11-25

Wheat is the second most important food grain after rice, contributing nearly 20% of the total food grain supply. A field experiment was conducted during Rabi 2024–25 at the Agronomy Farm, SAGE University, Bhopal to evaluate the effect of integrated nutrient management (INM) on growth, yield, and soil fertility of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The experiment comprised seven treatments laid out in randomized block design with three replications, including combinations of recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF), farmyard manure (FYM), and bio-fertilizers (Azoto-bacter, PSB, KSB).Results revealed that treatment T₇ (75% RDF + 5 t FYM ha⁻¹ + Azoto-bacter + PSB + KSB) significantly enhanced growth of attributes such as plant height, tiller number, and dry matter accumulation compared to control treatment, and it was statistically at par with T2 (100% RDF) and T₄ (75% RDF + FYM + Azoto-bacter). Yield attributes (grain yield, effective tillers, grain weight per plant) and economic returns (GMR, NMR, B:C ratio) were also highest under T₇. Post-harvest soil fertility showed improvement in available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels. Thus, integrating 75% RDF with FYM and bio-fertilizers is not only agronomical efficient but also sustainable for long-term soil health and productivity of wheat crop.

Effect of Foliar Application of Gibberellic Acid (GA3) and Boron on Growth, Yield, and Quality of Phalsa (Grewia asiatica L.)

Devi Darshan — 2025-12-05

The present investigation was conducted to evaluate the effect of boron and gibberellic acid (GA₃) on the vegetative growth, fruiting, yield, and biochemical quality of phalsa (Grewia asiatica L.). Foliar application of boron (0.2% and 0.4% and GA₃ (25 ppm and 50 ppm), alone and in combination, significantly influenced vegetative, reproductive, and quality parameters compared to the control. Vegetative attributes such as shoot length, shoot diameter, number of shoots per plant, and number of leaves per shoot were markedly enhanced by combined treatments. The maximum shoot length (142.69 cm), shoot diameter (0.98 cm), and number of leaves per shoot (45.86) were recorded with GA₃50 ppm + boron 0.4%. Fruit set, fruit number per shoot, fruit weight, and yield also improved significantly under combined treatments. GA₃50 ppm + boron 0.4% registered the highest fruit set (76.02%), fruit number (83.46/shoot), and yield (6.48 kg/plant and 99.73 q/ha). Similarly, physical attributes such as fruit diameter (1.08 cm) and volume (1.30 cc) were maximized under the same treatment. Biochemical constituents including TSS, sugars, and ascorbic acid content increased with GA₃and boron application, while titratable acidity decreased. The highest TSS (26.41%), total sugars (20.06%), and ascorbic acid (41.68 mg/100 g) were recorded with GA₃50 ppm + boron 0.4%. Overall, the combined application of GA₃ 50 ppm with boron 0.4% proved most effective in improving vegetative growth, yield, and fruit quality of phalsa.

Restoring the Soil and Sustaining the Future: A Global Review of Natural Farming Practices and Impacts

Aditya V Machnoor — 2025-10-25

Soil degradation, climate instability, and unsustainable food production models have created a global crisis in agricultural sustainability. Natural farming offers a potential solution by restoring soil health, minimizing external chemical inputs, and enhancing ecosystem services critical for food security. This review synthesizes evidence from three regional contexts: (1) South Asia, with a focus on Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) in India; (2) East Asia, particularly Fukuoka farming in Japan; and (3) Latin America, emphasizing agroecological movements in Brazil, Cuba, and Mexico. A systematic evaluation of peer-reviewed literature, field trials, and regional case studies demonstrates that natural farming improves soil organic matter, enhances microbial diversity, sequesters carbon, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Empirical findings from controlled ZBNF trials in Andhra Pradesh reveal significantly higher yields, improved soil moisture, moderated soil temperatures, and greater earthworm abundance compared to conventional and organic systems. Comparable practices in Japan and Latin America show similar benefits, underscoring natural farming’s adaptability across diverse socio-ecological landscapes. Despite these advantages, challenges persist, including limited policy support, costly certification, knowledge gaps, and uneven adoption. Addressing these barriers requires integrated policy frameworks, market development, farmer-led innovations, and continued long-term scientific validation. Overall, natural farming represents more than a technical shift it is a paradigm for resilient, equitable, and sustainable food systems. Its potential contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly soil health, biodiversity, and climate mitigation, positions it as a cornerstone of future agricultural transformation.

Evaluating Extension Training on Agronomic Technologies for Soil Health and Scaling Impact

N Krishna Priya — 2025-11-05

Soil health is a fundamental pillar of sustainable agriculture, environmental resilience, and global food security. In recent decades, agronomic-engineered technologies such as conservation agriculture, precision nutrient management, organic amendments, biochar, microbial inoculants, cover cropping, digital diagnostics, and integrated soil–water management have been developed to restore fertility, enhance nutrient cycling, and improve climate resilience. Yet, successful adoption of these technologies depends not only on their availability but also on farmers’ knowledge, skills, and confidence, which are primarily fostered through educational and training programs. This review evaluates extension-based interventions, including farmer field schools, on-farm demonstrations, ICT platforms, workshops, and blended learning approaches, that serve as the interface between scientific innovations and on-farm practices. The synthesis highlights that program effectiveness hinges on contextualization, intensity, follow-up support, and inclusivity of women, youth, and marginalized groups. Outcomes extend from immediate learning gains to medium-term adoption, measurable improvements in soil organic carbon, nutrient balance, and microbial activity, and longer-term productivity, livelihood, and environmental benefits. Barriers such as institutional limitations, financial constraints, and knowledge dilution hinder scaling, while enablers include public–private partnerships, farmer cooperatives, digital platforms, and incentive schemes. Scaling strategies like hub-and-spoke models and participatory approaches are shown to enhance outreach and sustainability. The review concludes that context-sensitive, participatory, and systematically evaluated training programs are essential to transform technological potential into tangible soil health and socio-economic gains.

Rhizosphere Microorganisms and Their Role in Sustenance of Soil and Nutrient Uptake in Soil

Nilotpal Das — 2025-11-18

The rhizosphere, the skin of soil that has plant roots, is a dynamic habitat that is rich in various microorganisms that are critical in the health of the soil, recycling of nutrients and the yield of the plants. These symbiotically-interacting rhizosphere microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes and mycorrhizae, assist root plant transformation and mobilization of important nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and micronutrients. Useful microbes like Rhizobium, Azospirillum, Azotobacter, phosphate solubilizing bacteria, and plant growth-promoting substances increase the efficiency of nutrient uptake by mechanisms like nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization and production of plant growth promoting substances. The mycorrhizal fungi especially the arbuscular mycorrhizae which is a type of mycorrhizal fungus enhances the nutrient and water uptake area of the root, as well as the plant tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. More so, rhizosphere microorganisms help to aggregate soil, decompose organic matter and to inhibit soil-borne pathogens thereby enhancing sustainable soil fertility. The rhizosphere microbiome is important to comprehend and control in order to develop agricultural practices that are environmentally friendly and that do not depend on chemical fertilizers but that ensure the sustainability of the soil in the long term. Therefore, the utilization of the power of rhizosphere microorganisms is one of the cornerstone solutions of sustainable agriculture and environmental sustainability.

AI-Optimized, Organic and Microbial Nutrient Formulations for Higher Efficiency and Sustainability in Hydroponics: A Review

Abhishek Sharma — 2025-11-21

Hydroponics presents an alternative to soil-based farming for efficient use of resources, to attain high yield and minimizing environmental impact. Nonetheless, its success depends on the accurate nutrient management, which balance the nutrition of the plants. The new possibilities are associated with artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and microbial biotechnology which arerecent developments that can be optimized to improve hydroponic nutrient management. This is a literature review on the use of integrated AI-optimized and microbial nutrient formulations to enhance the hydroponic sustainability. Machine learning and hybrid optimization algorithms, allow real-time monitoring and adaptive nutrient dosing with the use of IoT. Compost extracts, fish emulsions are also organic sources of nutrients that increase the plant growth by enhancing the release of nutrients, increase the phytochemical content and improve the quality of the produce. Integrally, Bacillus, and mycorrhizal fungi are growth-promoting microorganisms that enhance solubilization of nutrients and synergistic inoculant-organic systems lead to stable nutrient cycling and an improved root architecture. With the integration of AI-based decision support hydroponics will be able to move towards closed-loop resource-efficient systems that impact the environment less, as well as satisfy global needs of high-quality foods.

Cation-anion Balance in Soils and Plants: Mechanisms, Interactions, and Implications in Soil Fertility Management

G. B. Surya — 2025-11-24

Cation-anion balance plays a pivotal role in determining soil health, nutrient availability, and plant physiological function. Imbalances in ionic composition can significantly affect soil fertility, microbial activity, nutrient uptake, and crop productivity. The review paper aims to investigate how the balance between cations and anions in soils and plants influences nutrient availability, soil fertility, and overall crop productivity, and to understand the physiological and chemical m mechanisms regulating this balance for improved nutrient management and sustainable agricultural practices. This review synthesizes recent advances in understanding the dynamics of cation-anion equilibrium in soils and plants, highlights the key mechanisms maintaining ionic balance, and explores factors influencing nutrient interactions. Ion exchange is the primary mechanism by which soils maintain cation-anion balance and is considered the most important chemical reaction on earth after photosynthesis.s The implications of imbalance on plant growth, soil structure, and environmental health are discussed alongside strategies for monitoring and maintaining optimal ionic ratios for sustainable agricultural productivity.

Trap Cropping as a Viable Management Option for Plant-parasitic Nematode Problem: A Review

Gitanjali Devi — 2025-12-03

Plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs) causes plant damage leading to a considerable yield loss in agricultural crop throughout the world. Plant-parasitic nematodes differ in mode of feeding like endo-parasite, semi-endoparasite and ecto-parasite. Root-knot nematodes and cyst nematodes rank as the most significant species economically because of their complex interactions with host plants, extensive host range, and the extent of damage caused by infection. Successful nematode management requires a variety of approaches, including resistant crop varieties, cultural practices, biological control methods, and chemical treatments. While chemical nematicides are often recommended, their expenses, limited availability, concerns for human health, and environmental factors position them as the least favorable choice in effective nematode management. Cultural practices involve altering the cropping system and soil management that reduces nematode populations. Among all the cultural management, trap cropping is an important method for controlling plant-parasitic nematodes. This review illustrates the method and principles behind trap cropping for reduction of plant-parasitic nematodes.