Changes in soil properties with long-term use of fertilizer, lime and farmyard manure.

Abstract

Continuous use of FYM and NPK fertilizers over a period of 20 years has helped in maintaining and improving the physical properties and organic carbon content of an acidic red loam soil while the application of fertilizer nitrogen alone slightly deteriorated soil physical properties. The status of available P,N,Zn and Fe improved considerably with the use of balanced fertilizer and manure. Liming (in combination with NPK) reduced the available micronutrient contents. Application of lime and FYM improved soil structure and water holding capacity.