Evaluation of physico-chemical properties and their correlation with nutrients of soil of Sayala block VNMKV, Parbhani

Abstract

Soil is a vital natural resource that underpins agricultural productivity, environmental health, and long-term sustainability. Accurate assessment of soil properties is essential for effective land management and informed agricultural decision-making. The present study was conducted to evaluate the soil fertility status of Sayala Block, VNMKV Parbhani, using scientific methodologies integrated with geospatial techniques. A total of 80 surface soil samples were systematically collected and analyzed to assess key physico-chemical properties and nutrient availability. The findings revealed that the soils in the study area are dense in nature with clayey to clayey loam texture. Soil pH ranged from neutral to moderately alkaline (7.07-8.10), while electrical conductivity (0.14 to 0.23 dSm-1) values indicated non-saline conditions. Organic carbon content varied from very low to moderate (3.10 to 4.20 g/kg), and calcium carbonate content was observed in medium to high concentrations (48.6-145.00 g/kg). Macronutrient analysis showed that available nitrogen was low (101.51-177.64 kg/ha), phosphorus was in the medium range (8.98-22.11 kg/ha), and potassium content was high (666.28-1041.48 kg/ha). Sulphur levels ranged from 5.46 to 17.91 mg/kg, indicating moderate availability. Micronutrients such as iron (3.82-5.12 mg/kg), manganese (9.15-15.67 mg/kg), copper (0.99-2.65 mg/kg), and boron (0.33-0.83 mg/kg) were found to be sufficient, whereas zinc (0.28-0.94 mg/kg) was deficient in several samples, suggesting a need for supplementation. Correlation analysis showed that increasing soil pH was negatively associated with potassium (r=-0.315), sulphur (r=-0.251), copper (r=-0.285), and boron (r=-0.340) availability. Higher calcium carbonate reduces phosphorus availability (r=-0.292) potassium (r=-0.227) and sulphur (r=-0.297). Electrical conductivity was negatively correlated with copper (r=-0.335), and organic carbon was positively correlated with phosphorus (r=0.274), copper (r=0.257), and manganese (r=0.276).