Abstract:

A comprehensive physicochemical analysis of soil was conducted to evaluate various critical parameters, including soil pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon (OC), available nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Three representative soil samples were collected from a depth of 0–20 cm in Thangallapally village for detailed analysis. The findings indicated that the soil in this region is alkaline, with the pH ranging from 8.33 to 9.06. This pH range confirms the presence of alkaline conditions, which can influence nutrient availability and soil management practices. Electrical conductivity (EC), which indicates the level of soluble salts and overall soil salinity, ranged from 238.33 to 258.33µS/cm. These moderate EC values suggest that the soil is not highly saline, which is beneficial for plant growth. The organic carbon content, which plays a pivotal role in enhancing soil structure, fertility, and water retention, ranged from 0.56% to 0.63%. These values indicate a moderate level of organic matter, which is essential for sustaining soil fertility and microbial activity. Potassium content, an important nutrient for overall plant health, ranged from 785.3 to 858.63 kg/ha, suggesting an adequate supply of this vital nutrient for crop growth. Among other nutrients, available nitrogen was measured between 0.005% and 0.0063%, which is relatively low and may require supplementation for optimal crop production. Phosphorus levels were found to range from 39.76 to 43.76 mg/kg, indicating moderate availability of this critical nutrient, which supports root development, flowering, and fruiting. These results provide valuable insights for farmers, helping them to better understand the current soil conditions in the area. With this information, farmers can make informed decisions on the appropriate fertilizers and soil amendments required to optimize soil fertility, enhance crop yields, and ensure sustainable agricultural practices.