Review on Laboratory Mineral Soil Analysis and Soil Mineral Management in Organic Farming

Abstract

This review discusses about laboratory soil analysis and soil mineral management in different Organic farming. The objective of this review were laboratory mineral soil analysis and soil mineral management in organic farming was to draw together all the available relevant research findings in order to develop the knowledge and expertise of organic advisers and thereby to improve soil management practice on organic farms. There are several methods available for measuring total N in soils, mineral N in soils and mineralization potential. Chemical extractions which aim to establish the pool of nitrogen to plants include the use of potassium salts, K2SO4 to extract inorganic and labile organic N pools. Soil P tests are commonly used to assess soil nutrient availability and to assist in fertilizer recommendations. Available K measured by ammonium nitrate gave a good indication of the plant available K in soil; crops showed a response to increasing available K and continued cropping caused a decline in the pool of available K in soil. Soil analysis based on chemical analysis is a snapshot of nutrient pools. It is normally reported in mg/l of soil. Soils are sampled and analysed and digital maps provided to the farmer. This then allows targeted use of inputs to correct nutrient deficiencies or acidity. While this is primarily used in conventional farming for fertiliser application it is now also being used increasingly in organic farming.