Unravelling Soil-Crop Dynamics: Bridging Soil Test Fertilizer Dose with Rice Yield and Nutrient Optimization Strategies in Chhattisgarh Plains, India

Efficient fertilizer management is imperative in modern agriculture to optimize yields and mitigate environmental impacts. This study investigates soil test-based fertilizer recommendations for rice cultivation, focusing on nutrient uptake, fertilizer adjustment equations, and nutrient contributions from soil, fertilizers, and farmyard manure (FYM). Field experiments were conducted in Raipur, India, with 24 treatment variations involving nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and FYM levels. Soil and plant analyses were performed to assess nutrient uptake and contributions. Results revealed strong correlations between grain yields and total N, P, and K uptake, with N contributing 94-96% variability in yield. Soil test data indicated significant increases in available N, P, and K with fertilization, while disparities were observed in soil test P levels among treatments. Contributions from fertilizers, soil, and FYM varied, with FYM contributing 9.21% for N, 1.81% for P, and 6.27% for K. Ready reckoner tables for soil test-based fertilizer recommendations demonstrated reduced requirements with higher soil test values and increased yield targets. Overall, the study underscores the importance of tailored fertilizer management based on soil fertility assessments for sustainable rice production.