Delineation of soil fertility maps of Deolali Pravara village, Rahuri tehsil

Abstract

The present investigation entitled “Delineation of Soil Fertility Maps of Deolali Pravara Village, Rahuri Tehsil” was carried out during 2024-2025 with the objective of determining the nutrient profile of local agricultural soils. GPS-based grid sampling was employed to collect 130 representative soil samples at 0-15 cm depth, followed by laboratory analysis of physico-chemical properties. The soils were moderately alkaline (mean pH 8.27), low in available nitrogen (184-313 kg ha⁻¹), low to medium in available phosphorus (8.25-28.73 mg kg⁻¹), and medium to high in available potassium (281-612 kg ha⁻¹). Micronutrients (Zn, Fe, Mn, Cu) exhibited spatial variability, with deficiency of zinc being most widespread. Bulk density values averaged 1.37 Mg m⁻³, reflecting good porosity in clay and silty clay soils. Fertility maps prepared using GIS highlighted zones of nutrient deficiency and surplus, enabling site-specific nutrient management recommendations. The study emphasizes the role of digital mapping in precision agriculture and sustainable resource management.