Cropping Pattern-induced Variations in Soil Physico-chemical Properties and Fertility Status in Uniara Block, Rajasthan, India

Abstract

Cropping patterns can influence soil physical condition and nutrient availability through differences in crop residues, nutrient removal, rooting behaviour, and soil management. This study assessed the physico-chemical properties and fertility status of soils under eight prevailing cropping patterns in Uniara Block, Tonk District, Rajasthan, during the 2025–2026 Rabi season. Forty-eight surface soil samples (0–15 cm) were analysed for bulk density, particle density, water-holding capacity, porosity, pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, available N, P, K and S, and DTPA-extractable Zn, Cu, Fe and Mn. Data were evaluated using a completely randomised design and Pearson correlation analysis. Bulk density was lowest under Groundnut–Chickpea (1.33 Mg m⁻³), whereas Mung Bean–Gram recorded the highest water-holding capacity (48.86%) and porosity (49.47%). Soil pH ranged from 7.01 to 7.91 and electrical conductivity from 0.37 to 0.89 dS m⁻¹. Organic carbon was highest under Groundnut–Chickpea (0.55%). Mung Bean–Gram showed the highest available N (489.08 kg ha⁻¹), S (19.28 kg ha⁻¹), Zn (0.65 mg kg⁻¹), and Cu (0.66 mg kg⁻¹). Available P was highest under Maize–Mustard (21.28 kg ha⁻¹), while available K was highest under Sesame–Barley (294.51 kg ha⁻¹). Available N was strongly and positively correlated with organic carbon and water-holding capacity. The results indicate appreciable fertility variation among cropping patterns in Uniara Block.