The effect of Azadirachta Indica extract on the soil nutrients and the NPK value determination by electrochemical sensor

Abstract

1.1. Background: This paper focuses on the analysis of the contents of macro nutrients present in soil and the effect of Azadirachta indica extract on soil macro nutrients. Soil nutrient plays a vital role in the growth of crops and Azadirachta Indica extract being an organic matter, eco friendly and readily available in nature is also an excellent fertilizer. The amount of nutrients available from the soil (both micro and macro) other than those obtained from atmosphere through photosynthesis (hydrogen, carbon and oxygen) to the roots of the plant is the main factor which limits the yield of crops. There is a constant need of fertilizer which is bio-degradable, environment friendly and maintains soil fertility for a longer period of time or can at least last throughout the year. Sensing of these parameters is essential as they are used to monitor the impact of past, present and future fertility practices and on changes in a field’s nutrient status. Sensing of macro nutrient (nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium) is possible with the electrochemical sensors. Azadirachta indica tree has engaged a worldwide attention owing to its variety of medical properties, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant. Here, its extract in soil acts as a fertilizer that reduces the run-off of Nitrogen, and enriches the amount of nutrients and organic matter and thus it heavily reduces the necessity of synthetic fertilizers. Azadirachta indica extract together with the soil can also be considered as Nitrogenous Organic Fertilizer. We can use it especially on the soils that are poor in organic matter or where intensive crops are cultivated like vegetables and fruits.