A Review on Integrated Nutrient Management in Agriculture

Abstract

The excess usage of synthetic fertilizers with minimum application of organic inputs results into nutrient deficiencies, deterioration of soil and also causes environment pollution. It also affects the sustainability of agricultural production. Sustainable agricultural production includes the management of soil organic carbon, use of organic manure such as animal manure, green manure, crop residues, and sewage sludge. Since only organic manure cannot fulfill the nutrient demands of agriculture crops, hence integration of fertilizers and organic sources is the need of the hour. Under such circumstances, integrated nutrient management has come up as finest technology in present era. The INM technology enriches the agricultural crops with all essential nutrients, increases production, and sustains productivity & fertility of soil. It is the integrated use of organic manures and chemical fertilizers which encompasses crop rotations, introduction of legumes, and efficient management of water, weed and insect-pest. The improvement in nutrient application methods in association with timing of application is helpful in achieving the maximum efficiency of integration of organic and inorganic source of nutrients.