Restoration of Degraded Agricultural Soils Through Organic Amendments and Sustainable Farming Practices

Year : 2024 | Volume : 13 | Issue : 03 | Page : 19 27
    By

    Pavuluri Sai Chowdary,

  1. B.sc Hons Student, Department of soil science, MS Swaminathan school of agriculture, Centurion University of technology and management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha, India

Abstract

This study investigates the efficacy of organic amendments and sustainable farming practices in restoring degraded agricultural soils, addressing a critical global challenge affecting food security and environmental sustainability. The research was conducted over three growing seasons on degraded semi-arid agricultural land, utilizing a randomized complete block design with five treatments: The following farming practices: pure control, organic amendments but market conventional farming practices, sustainable farming practices but market standard conventional, organic amendments and sustainable farming practices and Standard conventional farming practices. The study implemented a comprehensive soil improvement strategy, combining organic amendments with sustainable farming practices. At the start of each growing season, researchers applied a mixture of compost, farm yard manure, and biochar to the experimental plots. These organic inputs were complemented by the adoption of conservation tillage, cover cropping, crop rotation, and integrated nutrient management. The research team conducted thorough assessments of soil physical, chemical, and biological properties, as well as crop yields and economic outcomes. Results revealed significant enhancements in key soil characteristics within the treated plots, including improved soil structure, increased water holding capacity, and enhanced nutrient status. Notably, organic carbon content in the amended soil samples increased by 15-25%, with the compound treatment showing the most pronounced effect. Furthermore, the study observed a marked increase in microbial biomass and enzymatic activities, indicating a more vibrant and functional soil ecosystem. These findings collectively demonstrate the efficacy of integrating organic amendments with sustainable agricultural practices in rejuvenating soil health, enhancing productivity, and potentially improving economic outcomes for farmers. Wheat yields increased by 20-30% in plots with combined treatments compared to the control. The study also revealed that sustainable practices, when combined with organic amendments, had synergistic effects on soil restoration, leading to better outcomes than either approach alone. Economic analysis showed that while initial costs were higher for organic amendments, the long-term benefits in terms of improved soil health and crop yields offset these expenses. This research highlights the potential of integrating organic amendments with sustainable farming practices as an effective strategy for restoring degraded agricultural soils. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, agricultural extension services, and farmers in developing sustainable soil management strategies to enhance food security and environmental conservation.

Keywords: Soil restoration, organic amendments, sustainable agriculture, soil health, crop productivity, semi-arid regions

[This article belongs to Research & Reviews : Journal of Crop science and Technology ]

How to cite this article:
Pavuluri Sai Chowdary. Restoration of Degraded Agricultural Soils Through Organic Amendments and Sustainable Farming Practices. Research & Reviews : Journal of Crop science and Technology. 2024; 13(03):19-27.
How to cite this URL:
Pavuluri Sai Chowdary. Restoration of Degraded Agricultural Soils Through Organic Amendments and Sustainable Farming Practices. Research & Reviews : Journal of Crop science and Technology. 2024; 13(03):19-27. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjocst/article=2024/view=188751


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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 13
Issue 03
Received 18/10/2024
Accepted 25/10/2024
Published 16/11/2024
246

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