Abstract

Precision farming is an integrated plant nutrient management system attempt to deliver the inputs actual crop needs without disturbing the entire farming area. The fertilizers in liquid state will be delivered through laterals directly to the root zone at high concentrations. Soil microorganisms are potential resources for soil productivity and sustainability, intended to be influenced by various anthropogenic-and farming activities. Hence in present study, we have investigated that the effect of different dose of liquid fertilizers on changes in soil microbial populations and enzyme activities of maize in comparison with conventional practice of fertilization. The results clearly revealed that all the fertilization reduced the microbial population and enzyme activities of maize rhizosphere and among the fertigations, 75 per cent of recommended NPK in the form of liquid fertilizer had a less reduction in the population of Azospirillum, P solubilising bacteria and total diazotrophs, soil respiration and enzyme activities. Hence it is evident from the study that the use of more organic manures and microbial inoculants along with inorganic chemicals fertilizers, as integrated approach is needed for precision farming.

Keywords: Azospirillum; Fertigation; Maize; Precision farming; Soil enzymes