Long-term effect of nutrient management on active organic pools: A review

Abstract

The effects of long-term fertilization and manuring on active pools of soil organic matter (SOM) have been studied worldwide. The published papers were critically reviewed aimed to assess the effect of continuing nutrient management practices on active organic pool (SOC, WSC, AHC, SMBC and SMBN) and to determine the depth wise distribution of such pool. The published results revealed that cultivation of crops without or imbalance nutrient addition for long run caused depletion of active organic pools, whereas addition of organic manures or inorganic fertilizers occasioned significant buildup of such fractions over unfertilized control. Published documents also suggested that soil depth is inversely related with active organic pool buildup. It may be concluded from this review that improper nutrient management leads decline active pool of SOM and deplete soil quality and hence proper nutrient supply is crucial for stockpile of such organic fraction in soil.