Evaluating the Varied Impacts of Conventional Versus Nano Fertilizers on Soil Nutrient Levels, Utilization Efficiency and Biological Activity in Acidic Soil

Abstract

A two-season field experiment was conducted at zonal agricultural research station, GKVK, Bengaluru during Kharif season in 2021 and 2022 with test a crop sunflower. The soil was sandy loam (Alfisol) in texture and experiment was laid out in RCBD with 3 replications and comprised of 14 treatments. Results revealed that the available soil nutrients like nitrogen (307.25 kg ha-1), sulphur (13.28 mg kg-1) and zinc (1.23 mg kg-1) content differed significantly, with treatment T2 (Package of practice). However, all other major, secondary and micro nutrients did not vary significantly. Nutrients use efficiency of nitrogen (72.01 kg kg-1), phosphorus (26.47 kg kg-1) and potassium (35.29 kg kg-1) were recorded higher with nano fertilizers than conventional one. Urease activity (22.42 µg NH4-N g-1 hr-1) was found to be significantly higher in treatment T2 (Package of practice) and enzyme activity like dehydrogenase activity and acid phosphatase activity not significantly varied, the numerical difference was regulated by pH of soil. Combination of conventional and nano fertilizers can be effectively utilized in enhancing the nutrients use efficiency while sustainably managing the soil properties.