SOIL FERTILITY BACKGROUND
Greek historian
Scientist in the history of soils
SOIL ORGANIC AND SOIL ORGANIC MATTER
Soil microbiology
Importance of soil organism
Classification of soil organism (Microclimate, mesoflora, macrofauna, and megafuana)
SOIL ORGANISMS AND THEIR FUNCTION
Bacteria, Actinomycetes, Fungi, Protozoa and etc.
NITROGEN CYCLE
Fixing Nitrogen in the atmosphere
Fixing Nitrogen in the soil (Nitrification)
Acquiring Nitrogen from Organisms (Ammonification)
Returning the nitrogen back into the atmosphere (Denitrification)
MICROBIAL GROWTH PHASES
Role of Soil Organisms in the Soil Fertility
Decomposition
Advantages of composting
SOIL FERTILITY
Soil Productivity
Essential Nutrient
Primary Macronutrients: Nitrogen
Primary Macronutrients: Phosphorus
Primary Macronutrients: Potassium
Secondary Macronutrients: Calcium, Magnesium, Sulfur
Micronutrients
SOIL CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT
Factors Cause of Declining in Soil Fertility
Fertilizer
Organic VS Inorganic
Methods of fertilizer Application
FERTILIZER COMPUTATION
PERSONAL BIO
Name: Deglyn Rose V. Gella
Mobile Number: 09460971188
Home Address: Katipunan Guipos Zamboanga del Sur
PERSONAL INFORMATION
N-Name: Degs
Gender: Female
Date of Birth: May 9,2003
Nationality: Filipino
Religion: Filipinista
Mother’s Name: Michelle V. Gella
Father’s Name: Edgar L. Gella
Sibling’s Name:
Dexter Jay V. Gella
Deglyn Rose V. Gella
Deserie Shane V. Gella
Merry Joy V. Gella
Keven V. Gella
Language Known: Cebuano
Hobbies: Dancing
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Elementary: Katipunan Elementary School
Year of Passing: 2015-2016
High School: Guipos National High School
Senior High School: Guipos National High School
College: Josefina Herrera Cerilles State College
Year of Passing: N/A
REFLECTION/ SUMMARY
SOIL FERTILITY BACKGROUND
The capacity of the soil to offer vital nutrients and hospitable circumstances for plant
development is referred to as soil fertility. It is impacted by a number of variables, including as
the organic matter content of the soil and the availability of nutrients. A sufficient amount of the
vital elements needed for plant growth may be found in fertile soil. By breaking down organic
matter and releasing nutrients in forms that plants may take, microorganisms break down organic
matter and maintain soil fertility.
Organic matter, which comes from leftover plant and animal material, is essential for soil
fertility. It enhances the nutrient retention, water-holding capability, and soil structure. For soil
microbes, organic matter serves as a source of carbon and energy, encouraging their activity and
the mineralization of nutrients. Soil fertility may be improved by adding organic matter through
techniques including composting, cover cropping, and crop leftovers.
In conclusion, nutrient availability, organic matter content, pH levels, microbial activity,
and soil management techniques all have a complicated role in soil fertility. For agricultural
systems to be effective and sustainable, they must be understood and managed.
SOIL ORGANIC AND SOIL ORGANIC MATTER
The term "soil organic matter" (SOM) refers to the organic substances found in the soil,
including remains of plants and animals that have undergone varying degrees of decomposition.
It is an essential part of soil and is essential to the health, fertility, and operation of the
ecosystem. For the soil to remain healthy, organic matter in the soil is crucial. It enhances root
penetration, nutrient availability, and microbial activity while boosting soil structure, porosity,
and water-holding capacity. The ability to withstand erosion, compaction, and nutrient leaching
is improved in healthy soils with enough organic matter content. n terrestrial ecosystems, soil
organic matter serves as a large carbon storage facility. Plants take in carbon dioxide from the
environment through photosynthesis and convert it into organic matter through root exudates,
litterfall, and root turnover. This procedure, known as carbon sequestration, lowers the amount of
carbon dioxide in the atmosphere by storing carbon in the soil for a long time.
An essential part of soil that affects soil health, fertility, and environmental sustainability
is soil organic matter. It is essential to the soil's structure, microbial activity, carbon
sequestration, and nutrient cycling. For soils to remain productive and sustainable, it is crucial to
manage and preserve the organic matter present in the soil through suitable agricultural
techniques.
SOIL ORGANISMS AND THEIR FUNCTIONS
The health and fertility of the soil are vitally dependent on the creatures that live in the
soil. They participate in a number of critical processes that are crucial for the health of the soil
ecosystem and plant development. Nutrient cyclin plays an important role in soil organisms.
Organic matter is broken down by decomposer organisms like bacteria and fungus into simpler
molecules that plants may use. As a result of the breakdown process, vital elements including
potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen become accessible for plant absorption. Without the
activities of soil organisms, organic matter would build up and plant nutritional deficits would
result from nutrient cycling.
Additionally, soil organisms continue to regulate the climate and sequester carbon. A part
of the carbon is transformed into stable forms and deposited in the soil as organic carbon as a
decomposer breaks down organic materials. The atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration is
decreased as a result of this process, which helps to moderate climate change. The production of
greenhouse gases including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide during the breakdown
and nutrient cycling processes is also influenced by the activity of soil organisms.
NITROGEN CYCLE
The nitrogen cycle is a natural process that involves the conversion and cycling of
nitrogen in various forms within the environment. Nitrogen s essential element for the growth
and development of living organisms, including plants and animals.
Human actions, such as the use of artificial fertilizers, can upset the nitrogen cycle's
normal balance. Overuse of nitrogen can cause greenhouse gas emissions and water
contamination, among other environmental issues.
Understanding the nitrogen cycle is crucial for sustainable agriculture because it ensures the
availability of this essential nutrient for plant development, optimizes the use of nitrogen
fertilizers, and reduces environmental effects.
Nitrogen gas (N2), which makes up around 78% of the Earth's atmosphere, cannot be
directly used by most organisms. The process through which certain bacteria, referred to as
nitrogen-fixing bacteria, transform atmospheric nitrogen into a useful form is known as nitrogen
fixation. These microorganisms can coexist freely in the soil or develop symbiotic relationships
with certain plants, such as legumes (beans, peas), to benefit both parties. They convert nitrogen
gas into the form of nitrogen that plants can absorb, ammonium (NH4+). The two-step process of
nitrification turns ammonium (NH4+) into nitrate (NO3-), the main form of nitrogen that most
plants utilize. This process is carried out by nitrifying microbes. During the initial process,
known as ammonification, certain bacteria transform ammonium into nitrite (NO2-). Other
bacteria convert nitrite into nitrate in the subsequent phase, referred to as nitridation.
MICROBIAL GROWTH PHASES
Bacteria will grow in a predictable pattern in a closed system or batch culture (no food is
added, no waste is removed), resulting in a growth curve with four distinct phases of growth: the
lag phase, the exponential or log phase, the stationary phase, and the death or decline phase. The
main agents responsible for the breakdown of organic materials are microbes like bacteria and
fungus. Microorganisms use enzymatic activities to break down complex organic substances into
simpler ones during the microbial phase of decomposition. By returning nutrients like carbon,
nitrogen, and phosphorus to the soil, this process makes them accessible to other living things.
Overall, the microbial phase plays a critical role in ecological processes, including
decomposition, nutrient cycling, symbiotic relationships, disease suppression, soil formation, and
bioremediation. Microorganisms are essential drivers of ecosystem functioning and have
significant impacts on the overall health and sustainability of ecosystems.
SOIL FERTILITY
The capacity of a soil to support plant development by offering vital plant nutrients and
desirable chemical, physical, and biological properties as a habitat for plant growth is known as
soil fertility. The macronutrients nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as sulfur, calcium,
and magnesium, are all present in plants.
Fundamentally, soil fertility refers to the soil's capacity to offer vital nutrients, water, and
an ideal habitat for plant growth. In order to promote plant nutrition and growth, fertile soil must
have a number of qualities, including enough nutrient availability, excellent soil structure,
appropriate water-holding capacity, ideal pH levels, and a varied and active soil microbiome.
Micronutrients, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are examples of essential nutrients that
must be present in adequate amounts and in forms that are easy for plants to absorb. To sustain
nutrient availability in the soil, nutrient cycling, which is aided by soil organisms, is essential. In
terms of nutrient retention and release, soil organic matter is crucial because it serves as a store
for nutrients and gives plants a consistent supply across time.
SOIL CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT
Soil fertility and management refers to the practices and strategies aimed at maintaining
or enhancing the fertility of soil to support optimal plant growth and productivity. The capacity
of the soil to support plant development and maximize agricultural output is known as soil
fertility. By adding organic and inorganic fertilizers to the soil, this can be improved. Data from
nuclear methods improves agricultural output and soil fertility while having a little negative
environmental impact.
For the soil to remain fertile, proper fertilizer management is essential. This entails
knowing what nutrients crops need and using fertilizers or organic amendments to suit those
needs. To determine nutrient levels and direct fertilizer delivery, soil testing is frequently
employed. Balanced fertilization helps minimize shortages or excesses that might impede plant
growth by taking into account macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) as well as
micronutrients. To keep soil fertile, erosion prevention is essential. Soil loss is reduced through
erosion management techniques include contour plowing, terracing, and the use of vegetative
barriers. These methods maintain soil structure, organic matter, and nutrients by safeguarding the
topsoil. By using these soil fertility management measures, farmers and land managers may
improve soil health, preserve crop output, protect the environment, and ensure the long-term
viability of agricultural systems.
FERTILIZER COMPUTATION
Fertilizer computation involves calculating the amount of fertilizer needed to meet the
nutrient requirements of crops based on soil test results and desired nutrient application rates.
To determine the fertilizer rate for a particular nutrient, multiply the rate of the desired nutrient
by 100 and divide by the percentage of the nutrient in the fertilizer. It's significant to highlight
those site-specific issues, such as crop nutrient absorption rates, soil nutrient release
characteristics, and environmental concerns, might make fertilizer computation more
complicated. The suggestions for fertilizer computation based on particular crop and soil
conditions can be more precisely and specifically provided by consulting with agricultural
professionals, extension services, or soil fertility specialists.
It entails evaluating the soil's nutrient level, identifying nutrient imbalances or
inadequacies, and estimating the correct quantity of fertilizer to apply. The procedure makes sure
that the plants get the nutrients they require while reducing waste and any environmental effects.
A crucial part of calculating fertilizer is soil testing. Farmers can ascertain the current
nutrient levels in the soil by testing soil samples. This data is used as a starting point to
determine the precise nutritional needs of various crops. A focused and effective fertilizer
application is made possible by soil testing, which also aids in identifying any nutrient surpluses
or shortfalls.
Composting (Using manures, Madre de cacao, uhot,etc.)
Composting involves the natural decomposition of organic materials, such as food scraps,
yard waste, and other biodegradable materials, into nutrient-rich compost that can be used to
enrich soil and support plant growth. In order to reduce trash and protect the environment,
composting is essential. Composting reduces climate change by keeping organic waste out of
landfills, where it would release damaging greenhouse gases. Compost, a useful resource that
enhances soil health and lessens the need for artificial fertilizers, is created instead of the organic
materials.
Composting is a process that respects the environment and has several advantages. It
improves soil health, cuts waste, develops sustainable communities, and links us to the natural
world. We may strengthen our appreciation for this straightforward yet effective act of
environmental care by pondering on the effects of composting. Composting can strengthen our
ties to the natural world. It draws attention to how intertwined natural processes are and serves to
remind us of our responsibility to care for the planet. Composting raises our awareness of the
importance of organic matter and its capacity to repair and maintain life.
Moving Quiz (About Fertilizer)
Reflecting on fertilizers prompts us to consider the broader implications of their use and
fosters a mindset of responsible nutrient management. It encourages us to seek sustainable
alternatives, adopt best practices, and promote environmentally conscious agriculture. We are
encouraged to consider the idea of nitrogen cycling in ecosystems by the fertilizer reflection.
Whether manufactured or natural, fertilizers frequently come from limited resources. Thinking
about this serves as a reminder of the need of completing the nutrient loop and implementing
sustainable techniques like crop rotation, cover crops, and composting to recycle nutrients and
reduce the need for outside inputs.
Reflection on fertilizers encourages continuous improvement in fertilizer use and
management. It reminds us to stay updated with scientific research, technological advancements,
and evolving best practices to minimize environmental risks associated with fertilizers. It
motivates us to seek innovative solutions, such as precision agriculture and nutrient management
planning, to optimize fertilizer use and reduce environmental impact.
Role Play (Nitrogen Fixation)
Role playing while thinking about the nitrogen cycle may be an interesting and
immersive method to comprehend the complexity and importance of this natural process. We can
better understand the interconnectedness of diverse species and their contributions to nutrient
cycling by assuming various roles within the nitrogen cycle. Through role playing, we may see
and feel how many creatures in the nitrogen cycle are interrelated. For instance, plants use their
roots to take up nitrogen from the soil in the form of nitrates. As a plant, we might consider how
our ability to grow and develop depends on the availability of nitrogen in the soil. This
interdependence illustrates the interdependence of species and emphasizes the significance of
preserving a healthy nitrogen cycle.
The nitrogen cycle may be simulated to gain a unique understanding of its dynamics and
importance. It promotes a better comprehension of the relationships between species, sheds light
on how human activity affects the environment, and emphasizes the significance of both
individual and group responsibilities in sustaining a healthy and sustainable nitrogen cycle.
Debate (About earthworms, insects, fungi, bacteria)
Debating about earthworms, insects, fungus, and bacteria may be a thought-provoking
activity that inspires consideration on the functions and importance of these living things.
Incredible organisms, earthworms are essential to the health of the soil and the operation of the
ecosystem. Thinking about earthworms brings forth their capacity to improve soil fertility and
structure. They increase aeration and drainage by tunneling into the ground, and their castings
(excrement) suffuse the soil with nutrients and beneficial bacteria. This analysis stresses the role
of earthworms in enhancing soil biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and healthy plant
development.
This contemplation highlights the interdependence of species and the significance of
maintaining insect populations for the health of ecosystems as a whole. Additionally, fungi create
mutualistic connections with plant roots known as mycorrhizae, which improve nutrient intake
and support plant growth. The extensive network of relationships between fungus, plants, and
other species that preserve environmental equilibrium is highlighted in this perspective. Bacteria
are essential for the decomposition of organic materials, the prevention of illness, and the
preservation of the general health of the soil. This analysis emphasizes how crucial bacteria are
to maintaining ecological functionality.
