Give the two factors that determine soil fertility.
Answers
Answer:
Fertile soil results in high yield and better quality of plants. Fertile soil is rich in fundamental elements and minerals, has good aeration, water holding capacity, and good texture.
Let us have a look at what is soil fertility and how can it be replenished.
FACTORS:
The following factors affect the soil fertility:
Mineral Composition
The mineral composition of the soil helps to predict the ability of the soil to retain plant nutrients. Application of proper fertilizers and manures helps in enhancing the quality of the soil.
Soil pH
Soil pH helps in maintaining the nutrient availability of the soil. A pH range between 5.5-7 is optimum for soil fertility.
Soil Texture
The minerals of different sizes are responsible for maintaining the structure of the soil. Clayey soil can retain more nutrients and hence acts as a nutrient reservoir.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is a source of nitrogen and phosphorus. These can be mineralized and made available to the plants.
☆Soil fertility is influenced by the physical, chemical and biological properties of soil.
☆ These are the two factors that determine soil fertility :-
● Adequate nitrogen and phosphorus content in the soil makes the soil more fertile.
● Organic materials also play an important role in increasing soil fertility.