Abstract:
In this study soil EC and pH contributing to citrus fruit quality were studied in Sargodha, Punjab, Pakistan during 2006-08. For this purpose an elaborated survey of the area was made and 743 soil samples were collected from 41 locations of citrus growing areas of Sargodha district upto the depth of 0-5, 15-30, 30-60, 60-90, 90-120 and 120-150 cm. Analysis of data produced distinctive results relating to EC/pH of the large areas (Sargodh, Bhalwal, Shahpur, Silanwali, Kotmomin and Sahiwal). The results revealed that 71.2 percent of total samples had ≤ 2dS/m EC and 42.6 percent of the samples had pH ≤ 8.2 being safe ranges of EC and pH of citrus. According to classification of salt affected soils, 59.4 percent of total soils were normal and remaining 40.6 percent were salt affected (3.9% saline, 7.8% saline sodic and 28.9% sodic). The study confirmed the concern of citrus scientists that soil factors particularly pH and EC in Sargodha areas are increasing unfavorable conditions which hinder healthy and productive substance of citrus orchards. The present research was undertaken first time to provide a clear insight about soil related factors responsible for uneconomic life span, reduced yields and poor fruit quality.
Page(s):
27-36
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Journal of Agricultural Research, Volume: 49, Issue: 1, Year: 2011