Which practice is NOT involved in soil fertility maintenance?

Soil fertility maintenance is essential for sustainable agriculture and involves various practices that enhance the soil’s ability to supply essential nutrients to plants. Among the options provided, ignoring nutrient management planning stands out as a practice that is not aligned with the principles of maintaining soil fertility.

Nutrient management planning is crucial as it ensures that the appropriate types and amounts of nutrients are applied to the soil based on the specific needs of the crops and the inherent characteristics of the soil. This approach optimizes nutrient use efficiency, promotes healthy plant growth, and helps prevent environmental issues such as nutrient runoff, which can lead to water pollution. Without a thoughtful nutrient management plan, soil fertility can decline, and crops may not receive the necessary nutrients, leading to poorer yields and nutrient imbalances.

On the other hand, maintaining organic matter, using cover crops, and cautiously using animal manures are all recognized practices that contribute positively to soil fertility. Maintaining organic matter enhances soil structure, moisture retention, and nutrient availability. Cover crops can prevent soil erosion, suppress weeds, and add nutrients back into the soil when they are turned under. Cautious use of animal manures helps recycle nutrients, improves soil fertility, and adds organic matter, but it also needs to be managed properly to prevent nutrient