Influence of Integrated Nutrient Management on Soil Health and Nutrient Dynamics under Wheat Cultivation

Abstract

Intensive cropping and nutrient imbalances often lead to soil degradation, making long-term sustainability a central concern for modern agriculture. Integrated Nutrient Management (INM), which combines organic, inorganic, and bio-fertilizers, is a promising strategy to address this challenge. In light of this concern, a two-year field investigation was executed during the rabi seasons of 2023–24 and 2024–25 at Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur. The experiment, laid out in a randomized block design with three replications, evaluated nineteen INM treatments to determine their impact on soil physico-chemical properties. While statistical analysis revealed non-significant treatment effects on the parameters measured (electrical conductivity (EC), pH, and available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium), a clear numerical trend emerged. The treatment (T18) comprising 100% NP + FYM + S + Zn + Fe + liquid bio-fertilizer (LB) soil application yielded the most favorable outcomes. Compared to the control (T1), this optimal treatment (T18) showed the highest pooled increases in available nitrogen (230.63 kg/ha; a 21.3% increase), available phosphorus (13.24 kg/ha; a 3.7% increase), and available potassium (177.65 kg/ha; a 3.6% increase). It also recorded the highest electrical conductivity (0.40 and 0.41dS/m in the year 2023-24 and 2024-25 respectively) and the lowest soil pH (8.07 and 8.06 in the year 2023-24 and 2024-25 respectively). Although statistical differentiation was not achieved, the consistent numerical improvements highlight the potential of this specific INM combination as a practical strategy. It demonstrates a clear, quantitative trend towards enhancing soil fertility, offering a viable pathway for improving long-term agricultural sustainability.