Spatial Heterogeneity of Soil Micronutrients in Shivalik Foothill Zone of Himachal Pradesh: A Cross-Site Investigation of Soil Fertility

Abstract

Agricultural soils are subjected to constant management practices which influences their nutrient status. Further, micronutrients play a crucial role in determining optimal crop growth and yield for majority of the commercial crop roster. Keeping this under consideration, an investigation was carried out for micronutrient status of soils of Indora block of district Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. Ninety-nine representative soil samples (0-20cm) were collected from the farms primarily growing cauliflower in 400m2 area (minimum). The profile samples were analyzed for DTPA micronutrients by method Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) which was found to be sufficient in Cu and Fe. However, for DTPA-extractable Zn and Mn it varies from 1.12 to 4.30 and 2.04 to 7.20 mg kg-1. These findings emphasize the importance of soil testing and site-specific nutrient management to address potential deficiencies, optimization of crop productivity in the region and promote policy making protocols for the local farming community.