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Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of soil fertility?
What is the primary function of soil fertility?
- To regulate soil temperature and climate
- To support ecosystem health
- To provide essential nutrients and support plant growth (correct)
- To maintain environmental sustainability
Which of the following is a physical factor affecting soil fertility?
Which of the following is a physical factor affecting soil fertility?
- pH level
- Soil texture and structure (correct)
- Nutrient availability
- Microbial activity
What is the optimal pH range for most crops?
What is the optimal pH range for most crops?
- Between 7.0 and 8.0
- Between 6.0 and 7.0 (correct)
- Between 5.0 and 6.0
- Between 8.0 and 9.0
Which of the following is a biological factor affecting soil fertility?
Which of the following is a biological factor affecting soil fertility?
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What is the purpose of crop rotation and intercropping?
What is the purpose of crop rotation and intercropping?
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What is the purpose of conservation tillage?
What is the purpose of conservation tillage?
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Study Notes
Definition and Importance
- Soil fertility refers to the ability of soil to provide essential nutrients and support plant growth.
- Soil fertility is crucial for agricultural productivity, ecosystem health, and environmental sustainability.
Factors Affecting Soil Fertility
- Physical factors:
- Soil texture and structure
- Water availability and drainage
- Temperature and climate
- Chemical factors:
- pH level (acidity/alkalinity)
- Nutrient availability (NPK: nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium)
- Micronutrient availability (e.g., calcium, magnesium)
- Biological factors:
- Microbial activity and diversity
- Organic matter content and decomposition
Soil Fertility Indicators
- Soil pH: optimal range for most crops is between 6.0 and 7.0
- Nutrient levels: NPK levels, as well as micronutrient availability
- Organic matter content: percentage of organic matter in soil
- Microbial activity: indicator of soil biological health
Management Practices for Soil Fertility
- Crop rotation and intercropping: to maintain soil nutrient balance and reduce pests/diseases
- Organic amendments: adding compost, manure, or green manure to enhance soil fertility
- Fertilizer application: targeted use of synthetic or organic fertilizers
- Conservation tillage: reducing soil disturbance to preserve soil structure and organic matter
- Cover cropping: planting cover crops to add organic matter and reduce erosion
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