Appraisal Soil Quality in the Agrarian Society of Pir Panjal Himalayas

Background: The present study pertains to appraise the soil fertility in the foot hills of Pir Panjal by measuring different physico-chemical parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon (OC), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in the foothill of Himalayas. Study area with unique physiographic and socio-economic identities have attributed to the soil fertility. Methods: Soil tests were carried at Soil Testing Laboratory (STL), Department of Horticulture. Soil samples at 1-30 cm depth were collected from 10 sample sites selected through composite sampling. Samples were collected randomly keeping in mind the maximum areal coverage. From each site, three sub samples were taken from selected locations to have holistic view of the soil fertility. Conclusion: The study showed deficiency of N & K in all the soil samples, with little variations in other parameters. Sample sites adopting organic farming showed optimum soil fertility. In the study we concluded that practice of adapting organic fertilizers is suitable for maintaing soil fertility. Least perception in the use of different fertilizers (organic & inorganic) a potent cause in the soil deformities in the region.