Integrated management of different nutrients with FYM on soil fertility status and nutrient uptake by turmeric in acidic soil of Western Himalayas

摘要

The increase in available P due to integrated effect of farm yard manure and nutrients addition may be because of the fact that upon decomposition, organic matter releases some acids which act as chelates and help in forming coating on sesquioxides, which are common in acidic soils. Turmeric, known for its medicinal properties is gaining popularity in Himachal Pradesh due to good monetary returns and high market demand. The area under this crop in the state is about 150 ha with production of 110 tonnes. The average yield is only 0.73 XJ ha, which is comparatively lower than that of many states like Andhra Pradesh (4.13 t/ha) and Tamil Nadu (3.73 t/ha) (Anon., 2005). High P and K fixation capacity, low rates of organic matter decomposition and N andS mineralization are some of the important limiting factors affecting productivity and nutrients uptake by the crop in the acidic conditions (Sharma et al, 2001). The available N,P,K and S in soil play a significant role in improving the nutrient uptake,productivity and nutrient status in the soil. In general as the dry matter production increases, uptake of nutrients also increases as there is positive correlation between yield and uptake (Subramanian et al., 2001).