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Read the full guideSoil fertility is the soil's ability to supply the nutrients a crop needs, in the right amounts and at the right time. It depends on the nutrients present, on organic carbon and pH, and on the soil organisms that make nutrients available.
Photo coming soonsoil-test-report-farmer.webpPhoto of a farmer holding a soil health card or soil test report in the field
Nutrients crops need
- Major: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K)
- Secondary: calcium, magnesium, sulphur
- Micronutrients: zinc, iron, boron, manganese, copper, molybdenum
Why organic carbon matters
Organic carbon is the best single sign of soil fertility. It holds nutrients and water, feeds soil organisms and keeps the soil crumbly. Many Indian soils now test low in organic carbon.
Why pH matters
- Most nutrients are easiest for plants to take up in near-neutral soil
- In alkaline soil, zinc, iron and phosphorus get locked up
- In acidic soil, phosphorus and some micronutrients get locked up
Locked nutrients
Soil often holds plenty of phosphorus, potash and zinc that the crop cannot use. Phosphate-solubilising, potash-mobilising and zinc-solubilising bacteria help release them, which is why our biofertilizer range includes PSB, KMB and ZSB.
Written by Gafar Laiya, founder of Gujarat Bio Organics, working with farmers since 2006. Results differ from farm to farm with soil, weather, crop and management. Farmer experiences on this site are their own reports, not a promise of results.
Questions
How often should I test my soil?
Every two to three years for each field, and whenever yields drop without a clear reason.
What is a good organic carbon level?
Soil labs commonly treat below about 0.5 percent as low. Ask your lab for the local standard.
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Read the full guideSend us your enquiry
Tell us your crop, the problem and your location, and send a photo if you can. Our team replies on WhatsApp or calls you with what to check, which product suits and where to buy it near you.