Macro and Micro Nutrient Profiling in Tehsil Hazro Soils: Insights into Spatial Variability

Research Article

Abstract

Understanding the nutrient status of agricultural soils is essential for optimizing crop growth and maximizing yields. Plants require 18 essential nutrients to grow and survive, classified by their importance into macronutrients (C, H, O, N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S) and micronutrients (B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, Mo, Cl, Co, Ni). The adequate concentrations and proper balance of these nutrients are key to achieve the maximum agricultural yields. However, intensive agricultural practices have led to the depletion of both macro and micronutrients from soil. To assess soil nutrient depletion, the Agricultural Extension Department of Punjab initiated a Cluster Program, collecting 140 soil samples from 11 villages (Haroon 16, Ghourghushti 4, Nartopa 8, Malikmala 14, Khagwani 18, Jalalia 12, Shadi Khan 10, Formali 14, Shamsabad 22, Hameed 12, Bahadar Khan 10, soil samples, respectively) in Tehsil Hazro, District Attock. Analysis revealed that none of the samples were affected by soil salinity or sodicity, with electrical conductivity (EC) values ranging from 0.11-0.55 dS m⁻1 (mean 0.22 dS m⁻1) and pH values ranging from 7.5-8.2 (mean 7.78). Soil saturation percentage varied from 26% to 54% (mean 40%), indicating soil textures of sandy loam, loam, and clay loam. Soil organic matter (SOM) levels ranged from 0.10%- 1.61%, with a mean of 0.72%, showing 67% of samples were deficient in SOM. Available phosphorus (P2O5) levels were critically low, ranging from 1-6 mg P Kg⁻1, with 100% of samples showing P2O5 deficiency. Extractable potassium (K2O5) levels were sufficient, ranging from 120-360 mg K Kg⁻1, with a mean of 177 mg K Kg⁻1. Micronutrient analysis showed varying levels of zinc (Zn) (0.10-0.74 mg Kg⁻1, mean 0.35 mg Kg⁻1), copper (Cu) (0.02-1.40 mg Kg⁻1, mean 0.54 mg Kg⁻1), iron (Fe) (0.2-1.9 mg Kg⁻¹, mean 0.77 mg Kg⁻1), and manganese (Mn) (0.00-0.62 mg Kg⁻1, mean 0.12 mg Kg⁻1). Based on these findings, site-specific fertilizer recommendations were provided to farmers to improve soil fertility management. These findings provide critical insights for targeted soil fertility management, enabling farmers to optimize nutrient application for improved crop productivity.