Soil Fertility Management Through Bioresource Technology

Maintaining soil fertility and productivity is crucial in modern agriculture, as the level of soil organic matter continues to decrease due to the overuse of inorganic fertilizers, reduced application of organic manures, monoculture, and unbalanced fertilizer use. Consequently, the area under multiple nutrient deficiencies has expanded in recent years. As a result of soil degradation and depletion, agricultural production in many regions is failing to respond positively to increased agricultural inputs.

Bioresource technology, in the form of bio software, can address many soil constraints and restore crop fertility and productivity. To revitalize soil productivity, the recycling of crop biomass and the application of compost are viable alternatives. There is an urgent need to replenish the soil by returning its lost share of organic matter, which is recognized as a significant threat to sustainability. India has access to substantial amounts of bio resources that can be effectively recycled. Approximately 350 x 106 kg of crop residue is generated in India each year.

This book is comprised of 10 chapters that explore the potential benefits of various bioresources for enhancing soil fertility in terms of physico-chemical properties, macro and micro nutrient availability, soil microbes and enzymes, crop growth, yield, and plant nutrient uptake.

R. Singaravel, Professor of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu.

V. Prasath, Deputy Manager (Plantation) in Tamil Nadu Newsprint and Papers Limited Kagithapuram, Tamil Nadu.