An Insight into Importance, Sources and Types of Manures

Abstract

There is an increasing awareness regarding organic farming in the world. But, Pakistani farmers yet to be realize about worst effect of modern agricultural practice. Hence alternative types of farming particularly the organic farming is hour of the need to get rid of inorganic fertilizers, chemicals, pesticides and some growth regulators etc. Manure has been utilized for centuries as a chief source of nutrients in agriculture. However, soil properties that mainly contribute to improve soil health are affected by application of manure i.e. Bulk density, soil aggregate stability, infiltration, soil water holding capacity, and biological properties are impacted to numerous degrees with manure application. Imbalance application of inorganic fertilizers and or no application of organic fertilizers can easily loosen the soil and elevate erosion and loss soil fertility. Inorganic fertilizers losses from agricultural field are more and also act as major source of atmospheric pollution. Therefore, proper application of organic and inorganic fertilizers can improve soil properties and fertility. Manure provides all essential nutrients required by plants but in limited quantities. It helps in maintaining C:N ratio in soil and also increases soil fertility and productivity. Due to increase in biological activity, nutrients that are in lower depths are easily available for plants. It also acts as much, thereby minimizing evaporation losses from the soil.