Physico-chemical characterisation and fertility rating of maize growing soils from hilly zone of Shivamogga district, Karnataka

Physico-chemical characterisation and fertility rating of surface soils (0-15 cm) was studied in 130 representative samples of different locations from maize growing areas from hilly zone of Shivamoga district of Karnataka.The soils were sandy loam to sandy clay loam in texture with bulk density varying from 1.43 to 1.49 Mg m-3. The study revealed that the majority of the soils were medium to highly acidic with non-saline nature and high in organic carbon status. The available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were low in fertility status. The exchangeable calcium and magnesium contents were marginal to adequate and varied from 2.10 to 6.90 cmol (p+) kg-1 and 0.50 to 3.30 cmol (p+) kg-1, respectively. The available sulphur ranged from 6.25 to 24.86 ppm. The soils were comparatively low to high in iron and manganese contents and were low in copper,zinc and boron contents. Hence, the nutrient management of maize growing soils plays an important role in maintaining the soil fertility and high productivity in hilly zone of Karnataka.