Effect of long term use of manures and fertilizers on soluble salts in soil and mineral composition of wheat (Triticum aestivum)

A long-term field experiment started in 1995 on coarse loamy soil at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (India) was selected to examine the impact of organic manures and fertilizers on soluble salts content in soil and mineral composition of wheat (Triticum aestivum). The results revealed that continuous application of organic manures (FYM, poultry manure and pressmud) alone or in combination with fertilizers significantly increased the content of soluble ions (Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl-, SO42-, HCO3- and CO32-) in soil. Water soluble CO32- content showed irregular trend among various treatments. The amounts of soluble ions were found highest in FYM treated plots as compared to poultry manures and pressmud which resulted in higher soil EC of these plots. Increased availability of these soluble ions in soil also increased the plant uptake and accumulated in plant tissues. The Na, Ca, Mg and Cl contents in wheat grain and straw were higher when organic manures were applied alone, while K and S contents were found higher in the plots receiving combined application of manures and fertilizers.