Evaluation Of Maize Varieties Under Varying Soil Physicochemical Conditions

Abstract

Agricultural productivity is strongly influenced by soil physicochemical characteristics, which determine nutrient availability, water retention, root development, and overall crop performance. This study evaluated the physicochemical properties of agricultural soils in District Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, to assess their suitability for maize cultivation and sustainable soil management. Thirty composite soil samples (0–30 cm depth) were collected from cultivated fields and analyzed for soil texture, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), soil organic matter (SOM), lime content, and ABDTPA extractable phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) using standard laboratory procedures. The investigated soils were predominantly medium textured, ranging from sandy loam to silty clay loam, indicating favorable physical conditions for crop production. Soil pH ranged from 7.0 to 8.0 (mean 7.5), demonstrating that most soils were alkaline. Electrical conductivity values indicated that nearly all soils were nonsaline, while lime content revealed that the majority of samples were moderately to strongly calcareous. Soil organic matter was generally low to marginal, whereas extractable phosphorus was deficient in a considerable proportion of samples. Potassium concentrations were mostly within the medium to adequate range. These findings indicate that although the soils possess favorable texture and low salinity, deficiencies in organic matter and phosphorus, together with alkaline and calcareous conditions, may restrict nutrient availability and crop productivity. Adoption of integrated soil fertility management practices, including balanced fertilization, organic amendments, and regular soil testing, is recommended to improve soil health and sustain maize production in the region.

Keywords: soil fertility; maize; physicochemical properties; phosphorus; potassium; soil organic matter; Peshawar; sustainable agriculture