Most crops rely on soil for growth, and soil fertility directly affects crop yield and quality. Even without sophisticated equipment, farmers can assess soil fertility using simple methods:
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Observing Soil Color: Fertile soil tends to be darker, while infertile soil is lighter in color.
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Examining Soil Depth: Fertile soil typically has a depth of over 60 centimeters, whereas infertile soil is shallower.
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Assessing Tillage Suitability: Fertile soil is loose and easy to till, while infertile soil is sticky and difficult to work with.
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Examining Puddling and Cracking: Fertile soil is less likely to form puddles and has smaller cracks, whereas infertile soil puddles easily and has larger cracks.
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Assessing Water Retention: Fertile soil retains water well, requiring less frequent irrigation, while infertile soil has poor water retention.
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Examining Soil Texture: Fertile soil feels smooth and sticky, forming large bubbles when wet, whereas infertile soil is lighter in color, lacks stickiness, and forms small bubbles.
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Observing the 'Night Tide' Phenomenon: Fertile soil remains moist even after drying, while infertile soil hardens.
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Assessing Nutrient Retention Capacity: Fertile soil provides sustained and ample nutrients, whereas infertile soil lacks nutrient retention capacity.
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Examining Plant Growth: Fertile soil supports the growth of certain plants like red sorrel, goosegrass, and shepherd's purse, while infertile soil favors the growth of others like wiregrass, duckweed, Bermuda grass, and wild orchids.
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Observing Animal Presence: Fertile soil attracts animals like snails, earthworms, and grasshoppers, while infertile soil is more likely to host ants.
In summary, soil fertility directly affects crop productivity and quality. Individuals with extensive experience in agriculture can identify which soil types are suitable for different crops.
