The unscientific practice of cultivation and the degradation of soil productivity: appropriate procedure for cultivation of miscellaneous cropping on various types of soil

Abstract

Unscientific cultivation practices and the excessive use of chemical fertilizers have gradually reduced soil productivity across many agricultural regions. In developing and underdeveloped countries, many farmers have limited education and lack proper knowledge regarding the balanced application of fertilizers, pesticides, and bio-fertilizers. Consequently, crops often receive either excessive or insufficient nutrients, which negatively affects soil fertility and crop production. In addition, different crops require different soil types for proper growth. Sandy loam soil is suitable for crops such as potatoes, onions, and carrots because these crops grow beneath the soil surface. In contrast, clay loam soil is ideal for paddy and jute cultivation because it can retain sufficient water and provide strong support to crop roots. Experimental studies have shown that crop production can be significantly improved by adopting proper agricultural practices. One important method is repeated tillage of cultivation land before sowing. The land should be tilled two to five times and left exposed for 10–20 days, allowing atmospheric air and sunlight to penetrate the soil. This process improves soil fertility, moisture balance, and productivity. Another essential practice is the application of bio-fertilizers such as cattle dung before planting. Bio-fertilizers naturally enrich the soil, maintain ecological balance, and restore soil productivity that may decline due to excessive chemical fertilizer use. Furthermore, chemical fertilizers such as urea should be applied in small quantities at regular intervals instead of a large amount at one time, as crops cannot tolerate excessive doses simultaneously. Proper irrigation, regular weed removal, and timely soil management also play important roles in enhancing crop growth and increasing agricultural productivity.