Paper Details
Evaluation of Different Fertilization Practices on Sugarcane Growth and Soil Health in Kawardha
Authors
Sanjay kumar Shriwas
Abstract
This research evaluates the impact of different fertilization practices on sugarcane growth and soil health in Kawardha, a region where sugarcane is a vital economic crop. Sugarcane farming in Kawardha faces several challenges, including declining soil fertility and inconsistent yields, which affect both productivity and sustainability. The study explores the effects of three fertilization practices—chemical fertilizers (NPK), organic fertilizers (compost, manure), and integrated nutrient management (INM)—in comparison to a control (no fertilization). Soil health is critical for long-term agricultural sustainability, and the role of various fertilization methods in maintaining or enhancing soil quality was a central focus.
The study utilized a randomized block design (RBD) with four treatments applied to sugarcane fields. Key sugarcane growth parameters (plant height, stalk diameter, and leaf area index) and soil health indicators (soil pH, organic carbon content, and microbial biomass) were monitored. Data were analyzed using ANOVA to determine statistical significance.
Findings showed that integrated nutrient management (INM) led to the highest sugarcane yield and improved soil health, with significant increases in organic carbon and microbial biomass. Chemical fertilization boosted crop growth but had negative effects on soil quality. Organic fertilizers enhanced soil health but resulted in lower yields compared to INM.
The study concludes that integrated nutrient management offers the most sustainable solution for balancing high sugarcane yields with long-term soil fertility in Kawardha. These results underscore the importance of adopting fertilization strategies that prioritize both crop productivity and environmental sustainability.
Keywords
Sugarcane growth, Soil health, Fertilization practices, integrated nutrient management (INM), Sustainable agriculture
Citation
Evaluation of Different Fertilization Practices on Sugarcane Growth and Soil Health in Kawardha. Sanjay kumar Shriwas. 2023. IJIRCT, Volume 9, Issue 4. Pages 1-10. https://www.ijirct.org/viewPaper.php?paperId=2409021