Characteristics and soil fertility appraisal of forest nursery soils of Bilaspur circle in Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

The survey of the management practices being followed in the forest nurseries and their physico-chemical characteristics was undertaken in district Bilaspur and Solan under Bilaspur Circle in Himachal Pradesh. The soil reaction was slightly acidic to neutral and electrical conductivity in safer limits, without any salinity hazards. A predominance of clay loam soil texture was observed with high organic carbon status. The soils were categorized as medium, high and medium with respect to available N, P and K, whereas high status of available Ca, Mg and S was observed.. It can be concluded from the results that loam texture, neutral soil reaction and good fertility status of the forest nurseries of Bilaspur circle have a great potential to produce healthy stock provided recommended package of practices coupled with balanced use of NPK fertilizers and organic manures are followed.