Technology for efficient nutrient management and sustainable cropproduction

Some of the important technologies that can help to improve fertilizer use efficiency, minimize losses and conserve environment have been highlighted Soil test based balanced application of nutrients results in high nutrient use efficiency and enhanced productivity. Recommendations for fertilizer phosphorus are based on soil organic carbon and available phosphorus status. In rice-wheat, fertilizer P should only be applied to wheat and its application to the following rice may be omitted. In general, whole of fertilizer phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) must be applied at the time of seeding and fertilizer nitrogen (N) should be applied in two to three equal splits. The number of fertilizer N splits and the timing of application depend on the crop and soil texture. In rice, leaf colour chart (LCC) may be used for need-based N management. Results show that use of LCC for the application of N fertilizer to rice can save 20–30 kg N ha⁻¹. In addition to N, P and K the deficiency of secondary (particularly sulphur) and micronutrients (zinc, iron and manganese) is also appearing in Punjab soils and it is imperative to manage these deficiencies. Integrated nutrient management appears to be an essential component of an efficient nutrient management program. It not only helps in saving inorganic fertilizer nutrients but also results in improved soil health and sustainable crop production.