Assessment and rating of available nutrient status of rice soil in the southern laterites (AEU 8) of Kerala

The present investigation was carried out the wetlands of selected farmer’s field in Chenkal panchayat of Parassala block, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, to assess the available nutrient status of rice soil in Southern laterites (AEU 8). The overall fertility status of this region indicated that the soil was strongly acidic, high in organic carbon, available nitrogen and phosphorus and medium in potassium. Excess levels of phosphorus and wide spread of deficiencies of calcium, magnesium, sulphur, zinc and boron are the major limitations to crop production in this region. Liming of acid soils in accordance with soil test results is highly essential. Amelioration of soil acidity and external inputs of secondary and micronutrients along with the major nutrients are essential for enhancing crop productivity in the Southern Laterites (AEU 8). Use of phosphatic fertilizers should be restricted to be tune of 25-30 per cent of POP recommendation. Thus a balanced fertilization along with appropriate micronutrient mixtures will help to enhance the productivity of rice and improve the nutrient use efficiency.