Physio-Chemical Properties of Some Eroded Soils of District Mansehra

A field survey was conducted to assess some physio-chemical properties of eroded soils of District Mansehra. Composite soil samples with 0-20 cm depth were collected from 10 sampling plots. They were assessed for soil pH(1:5), EC(1:5), soil organic matter (OM), AB-DTPA extractable P, AB-DTPA extractable K, bulk density, lime, and saturation. The results showed that soil pH in the areas under investigation was almost alkaline, ranging from 7.1 to 7.8. The EC values ranged from 2.2 to 2.9 dS m^-1 showing that the area under study had no sign of salinity. Soils having EC less than 0.7 dS m^-1 may be applied for good crop yield. The data on OM showed that the soils under investigation were insufficient in OM contents. The OM contents in these soils ranged from 0.59 to 0.92 %. Results regarding the P content range from 3.4 to 4.45 mg kg^-1, suggesting that some soils are adequate in P contents, but most soils are deficient. This study suggests the supplemental P application as fertilizer for profitable crop production. Furthermore, the addition of various organic fertilizers will improve the soil properties and fertility status of the soils. The soils in the area were also evaluated for K contents that range from 73.45 to 78.71 mg kg^-1, lime status ranging from 2.56 to 3.99 mg kg^-1, which is slightly calcareous, bulk density content ranging from 1.23 to 1.38 mg kg^-1, saturation level occurred between 32.4 to 40.1 mg kg^-1. It was established that micronutrients for integrated nutrient management and fertilizer application would be required in the future.