Abstract:
A study on characterization of soil media in a Polyhouse cultivation was
carried out in a naturally ventilated polyhouse located near football ground of
KCAET, Tavanur. The objectives of the study includes identification of significant
soil parameters governing growth and yield of crop, determination of the correlation
between important soil parameters and study the variation of important soil
parameters and nutrient status of soil media in polyhouse cultivation. sampling were
conducted at multiple random points to determine various parameters like
ph,EC,N,P,K status , micro nutrient status ,moisture content, and bulk density values
of soil. Statistical analysis tools such as correlation and regression were used to
determine the relationship between parameters and their variability among
themselves.
The results showed a combination of gradual and sudden variations of the
measured parameters with respect to both spatial and temporal variability .The mutual
dependency of these parameters makes its management more complex. Proper
monitoring and scientific management of this dynamic media is equally important
along with the microclimatic control measurements. The key to utilize the true
potential of polyhouse farming lies beneath the surface, in the often-underestimated
soil media. It holds the key to optimizing crop growth, resource management, and
sustainability within these enclosed agricultural ecosystems.
The study reveals the need of a detailed investigation regarding its mutual
dependency and relative variability during the crop growth cycle under protected
cultivation and reflects the need of precise automated soil control and monitoring
mechanisms in tandem with microclimatic controls.
