Methods of replenishing plant nutrients - SS2 Agriculture Lesson Note

Rotational Cropping:

This involves planting different crops in a specific sequence on the same piece of land.

It helps prevent nutrient depletion as different crops have varying nutrient needs.

Crop rotation can also disrupt the life cycles of pests and diseases.

 

Organic Manuring:

Organic materials like compost, animal manure, and green manure are added to the soil.

These materials decompose slowly, releasing nutrients gradually over time.

Organic manure improves soil structure, water-holding capacity, and microbial activity.

 

Inorganic Manuring:

Inorganic or synthetic fertilizers contain concentrated nutrients in chemical form.

They provide a quick nutrient boost to plants but should be used carefully to avoid overuse.

Common nutrients in inorganic fertilizers include nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).

 

Fallowing:

Fallowing involves leaving a piece of land uncultivated for a season or more.

This allows the soil to naturally replenish nutrients and recover from excessive cultivation.

It can also help control weeds and pests.

 

Liming:

Liming is the application of lime (usually calcium carbonate) to soil to raise its pH level.

This can make acidic soils more suitable for plant growth by improving nutrient availability.

Lime also enhances soil structure.

 

Cover Cropping:

Cover crops are planted between main crop seasons.

They protect the soil from erosion, suppress weeds, and improve soil fertility.

Some cover crops, like legumes, can fix nitrogen from the air, enriching the soil.

 

Each of these methods plays a role in maintaining soil fertility and ensuring that plants have an adequate supply of essential nutrients. Farmers often use a combination of these techniques based on their specific crop, soil conditions, and sustainability goals.