GROUP-3

MODERN TECHNIQUES USED IN SOIL PLANT

ANALYSIS FOR BETTER NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT
IMPORTANCE OF SOIL PLANT ANALYSIS AND NUTRIENT
MANAGEMENT IN AGRICULTURE-
(I) Soil analysis helps determine the level of essential nutrients such as nitrogen,
phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients present in the soil.
(II) Plant analysis provides insights into the nutrient uptake and nutritional status of the
crop. (Like about the deficiency or imbalances).
(III) Nutrient management can optimize crop yields while minimizing environmental
impacts, such as nutrient runoff or leaching.
(IV) Soil and plant analysis provide data-driven recommendations for fertilizer
application, enabling farmers to optimize inputs and avoid over applications or under
application of nutrients.
(V) It helps farmers achieve better nutrient use efficiency, reducing input costs and
promoting sustainable agriculture.
TRADITIONAL METHOD OF SOIL-PLANT ANALYSIS-
•Sample Collection: Soil and plant samples are collected from the field using proper
sampling techniques to ensure representative samples are obtained.
•Preparation: Soil samples are air-dried, ground to a fine powder, and sieved to remove
large debris. Plant samples are typically dried and ground as well.
•pH: Soil pH is determined using pH meters or colorimetric methods.
•Nutrient Levels: Nutrient levels such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium,
magnesium, sulfur, and micronutrients are analyzed using chemical extraction methods.
•Organic Matter Content: Organic matter content is estimated through loss-on-ignition or
Walkley-Black methods.
•Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC): CEC is determined to assess soil fertility and nutrient
holding capacity.
•Nutrient Analysis: Plant tissue is digested, and nutrient levels are analyzed using
techniques like atomic absorption spectroscopy or inductively coupled plasma
spectroscopy.
LIMITATION OF TRADITIONALMETHODS-
•Manual Data Entry Errors: In traditional methods, data entry is often done manually,
increasing the risk of typos, misinterpretations, and data discrepancies.
• Limited Access to Information: Without digital databases or cloud storage, accessing
relevant information can be time-consuming and restricted to physical locations or paper
files.
•Inefficient Communication: Traditional communication methods like paper memos or
phone calls can be slow and prone to miscommunication, leading to delays and mis-
understandings.
•Resource Intensive Processes: Traditional workflows rely heavily on manual labor,
consuming valuable time and resources that could be allocated to more strategic tasks or
innovation.
•Difficulty in Collaboration: Coordinating efforts across teams or departments can be
challenging without centralized systems for sharing documents and collaborating in real-
time.
•Risk of Data Loss: Paper-based records are susceptible to damage, loss, or theft,
potentially resulting in irreplaceable data loss and operational disruptions.
•Limited Analysis and Reporting: Analyzing data from disparate sources and generating
reports can be cumbersome and time-consuming, hindering timely decision-making and
strategic planning.
MODERN TECHNIQUES IN SOIL ANALYSIS-
1.Spectroscopic techniques
2.Chromatographic techniques
3.Mass spectrometry
4.Microscopy techniques
5.Electrochemical techniques
6.Molecular biology techniques
7.Imaging techniques
8.Remote sensing techniques
SPECTROSCOPIC TECHNIQUES-

Soil spectroscopy is a method that has the potential of more rapidly and cost-effectively
measuring soil properties in the lab and in the field. Soil spectral analysis estimates soil
properties by calibrating conventional reference measurements, like wet chemistry soil
tests, to the spectral signatures.
How it works:
1. A source emits electromagnetic radiation, usually in the form of visible, ultraviolet,
or near-infrared light.
2. The light interacts with the soil sample, causing it to absorb, emit, or reflect specific
wavelengths depending on its chemical composition..
3. A detector measures the intensity of the light that is transmitted through, emitted
from, or reflected by the soil sample.
4. The collected data is analyzed to identify the presence and concentration of
different chemical compounds in the soil.
PRINCIPLE BEHIND IT-
1. ABSORPTION- Different molecule in the soil absorb light at specific wavelength
depending upon their structure.
2. EMISSION- They emit light when got excited by an energy source and it depends
upon the composition.
3. REFLECTION- Soil reflect light differently depending upon their surface property
and composition.
4.SPECTRAL SIGNATURE- Each chemical compound has a unique spectral signature,
allowing scientist to identify and quantify various components.

The major objectives of spectroscopic techniques are-

1. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of samples.
2. Determining molecular structure and bonding.
3. Studying energy levels and transitions.
4. Investigating chemical and physical processes.
5. Environmental and biological analysis.
CHROMATOGRAPHIC TECHNIQUES-

Chromatography is a technique used in soil analysis to separate and identify the different
components present in a soil sample based on their physical and chemical properties.

Labeling
Soil chromatography in eugenio grass
WORKING-

1. Soil samples are collected or prepared for soil analysis.

2. Prepared samples are injected into the chromatographic system.
3. A solvent or mixture of it is pumped inside the chromatographic system.
4. Sample component interact with a stationary phase (which is typically solid or liquid
coated with solid support).
5. Components separate based on properties like polarity or size.
6. Separated components are detected using various methods.
7. Signals from detectors are analyzed to quantify components.
COMMON CHROMATOGRAPHIC TECHNIQUES USED IN SOIL
ANALYSIS-

*Gas Chromatography (GC): Widely used for analyzing volatile and semi-
volatile organic compounds in soil, such as pesticides, hydrocarbons, and other
organic pollutants.
*High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC): Employed for the
analysis of non-volatile organic compounds, such as herbicides, fungicides, and
other organic contaminants in soil.
*Ion Chromatography (IC): Used for the analysis of inorganic anions and
cations in soil, such as nitrates, phosphates, and heavy metals.
*Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC): A simple and inexpensive
technique used for qualitative analysis and preliminary screening of soil
components.
MASS SPECTROMETRY-

Mass spectrometry is an ideal analytical tool for detecting, identifying and quantifying
organic compounds in soil due to its' specificity and sensitivity.
WORKING-
•First, the soil sample is prepared and the different components (like chemicals or pollutants)
are separated using a chromatography technique.
• Next, the separated components enter the mass spectrometer machine. Inside the machine,
there is a part called the ionization source, which gives each component a positive or negative
charge.
•After the components are charged, they enter another part of the machine called the mass
analyzer. This part sorts the charged components based on their weight or mass. Heavier
components move slower, while lighter ones move faster.
•Finally, the sorted, charged components reach the detector, which counts and measures how
many of each kind there are.
•The mass spectrometer then displays the results as a mass spectrum, by looking at the mass
spectrum, scientists can identify and measure the different chemicals or pollutants present in
the soil sample, even if they are present in very small amounts.
• Mass spectrometry is a powerful technique that helps scientists understand what's in the soil
and if there are any harmful substances that could be dangerous for the environment or health.
MICROSCOPY TECHNIQUES-

•Optical Microscopy: This technique involves the use of visible light to examine soil
samples. It's akin to using a regular microscope but with specific adaptations for soil
analysis.
•Fluorescence Microscopy: Fluorescence microscopy involves using fluorescent
dyes or fluorescently labeled antibodies to highlight specific compounds or organisms
within the soil sample.

•Electron Microscopy:
Scanning Electron Microscopy
(SEM): SEM provides high-resolution
images of the surface of soil samples by
scanning them with a focused beam of
electrons.
•Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM): TEM provides even higher resolution
images by transmitting electrons through ultrathin sections of soil samples.

MICROSCOPIC FOREIGN ANALYSIS OF SOIL SAMPLE

Microscopy techniques used in soil analysis offer high-resolution imaging, allowing for detailed
visualization and quantification of soil components, microorganisms, and soil features. They provide
non-destructive analysis, complement other analytical methods, and help diagnose soil-related issues.
Versatile and adaptable, these techniques contribute to a comprehensive understanding of soil

properties and processes, vital for sustainable soil management and environmental conservation.
ELECTROCHEMICAL TECHNIQUES-

The electrochemical technique used in soil analysis involves using electricity to

understand the properties of soil.
How does it work? Basically, electrodes are placed in the soil, and then a small
electrical current is passed through. This current interacts with the soil and produces
measurable signals that tell us about its properties.
By analyzing the electrical signals, scientists can determine important things like
soil pH (acidity), moisture content, levels of nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus,
and potassium, as well as the presence of contaminants like heavy metals.
PRINCIPLES-
a. Electrode Placement: Electrodes are inserted into the soil.
b. Electrical Current: A small current is applied.
c. Ion Movement: Ions in the soil move in response to the current.
d. Signal Measurement: Movement generates measurable electrical signals.
e. Interpretation: Signals indicate soil properties like pH, moisture, and ion
concentration.
f. Calibration: Establishing relationships between signals and soil properties.
g. Data Analysis: Processing and analyzing the collected signals.
h. Result: Insights into soil health, nutrient levels, and contamination.
MOLECULAR BIOLOGY TECHNIQUES-

Molecular techniques in soil analysis involve methods for studying the genetic material and
biochemical activities of microorganisms in soil, providing insights into microbial diversity,
functions, and their roles in soil ecosystems.

TYPES-
1. Polymerase chain reaction(PCR): PCR in soil analysis amplifies DNA
from soil samples, aiding in the detection and quantification of soil
microorganisms and providing insights into soil microbial communities
and their functions.

2.Quantitative PCR (qPCR): qPCR is a variation of PCR that

quantifies the amount of DNA present in a sample. It's used
to measure the abundance of specific microbial groups
or functional genes related to processes like nitrogen
cycling, carbon degradation, or pollutant degradation in soil.

PCR-agarose of bacterial
DNA from the soil sample
3.Microarray Analysis: Microarrays can be used to analyze the presence and expression levels of
specific genes or functional groups of genes in soil microbial communities. They enable
researchers to study the genetic diversity and functional potential of soil microbes.
4.Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH): FISH involves the use of fluorescently labeled
DNA probes to visualize and identify specific microbial cells within soil samples. It allows for
the direct detection and localization of target microorganisms in their natural environment.
5.Functional Gene Arrays (FGAs): FGAs are microarrays that target functional genes involved in
key biogeochemical processes, such as nutrient cycling (e.g., nitrogen fixation, denitrification,
phosphorus metabolism) and pollutant degradation (e.g., hydrocarbon degradation, pesticide
degradation) in soil.

FISH MICROARRAY ANALYSIS

IMAGING TECHNIQUES-
Imaging techniques create visual representations of soil samples by using different forms of
energy or signals that interact with the sample. The energy or signals (like light, electrons, X-
rays) are directed at the soil sample, and the responses (reflections, emissions, etc.) are detected
and processed to generate an image. Different techniques use different forms of energy to reveal
specific details about the soil's structure, composition, and properties within the generated image.

A two-dimensional imaging technique for studying spatial-temporal dynamics of solutes in

sediment and soil
TYPES OF IMAGING TECHNIQUES-
•Optical microscopy: Uses visible light and optical lenses to magnify and visually
examine soil samples.
•Scanning electron microscopy (SEM): Utilizes a focused beam of electrons to scan the
surface of a soil sample, producing high-resolution images of its structure and
composition.
•X-ray computed tomography (CT): Generates 3D images of soil samples by taking
multiple X-ray images from different angles and reconstructing them.
•Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) imaging: Uses principles of nuclear magnetic
resonance to create detailed images of the distribution and mobility of water and other
fluids in soil samples.
•Infrared (IR) spectroscopy: Analyzes the chemical composition of soil samples by
measuring the absorption of infrared radiation by different molecular bonds.
REMOTE SENSING TECHNIQUE-
Remote sensing techniques in soil analysis involve using instruments mounted on satellites,
aircraft, or drones to collect data about soil properties from a distance, without direct contact.
These techniques use principles like spectral imaging and radar imaging to gather information
about soil characteristics over large areas, which can be analyzed and mapped for various
applications.

Example: 1.Satellite-based multispectral imaging-

Multispectral imaging is a remote sensing technique that uses satellite-mounted sensors to
capture images of the Earth's surface in several different wavelengths of the electromagnetic
spectrum (e.g., visible, near-infrared, and short-wave infrared). These images can be analyzed to
extract information about soil properties.
2.Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)-
It produces high-resolution images of the Earth's surface, regardless of weather or daylight
conditions, making it useful for applications such as monitoring sea
ice, detecting changes in land cover, and mapping terrain features.
3.MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer):-
It provides global coverage and high temporal resolution data
SAR IMAGING
for studying processes such as vegetation dynamics, land
surface temperature variations, and cloud cover.

4.Hyper-spectral Remote Sensing-

This technique involves collecting and processing information MODIS

from hundreds of narrow spectral bands across the

electromagnetic spectrum. Agricultural monitoring utilizes
hyper-spectral imaging to detect crop stress, identify crop types,
and assess soil conditions based on spectral signatures, aiding
HYPER SPECTRAL REMOTE
in precision farming practices. SENSING
Best practices and recommendations for effectively integrating soil and plant analysis
data for nutrient management:

PRACTICES

Sampling Protocols:
1. Follow standardized methods for soil and plant sampling.
2. Collect samples at appropriate growth stages for plant analysis.
Data Interpretation Guidelines:
1. Use established critical levels/sufficiency ranges for nutrient concentrations.
2. Consider interactions between nutrients and other soil/plant factors.
3. Interpret data in the context of crop type, growth stage, and environmental conditions.
Decision-Making Framework:
1. Integrate soil and plant analysis data with yield goals, crop requirements, and
economics.
2. Prioritize nutrient management decisions based on identified deficiencies/imbalances.
3. Develop nutrient budgets and application plans accordingly.
 RECOMMENDATIONS
Site-Specific Nutrient Management:
1. Divide fields into management zones based on soil variability.
2. Tailor nutrient application rates and sources to each zone's needs.
3. Utilize precision agriculture technologies for variable-rate application.
Nutrient Use Efficiency:
1. Apply nutrients at the right time, place, and in the right form.
2. Consider controlled-release fertilizers or foliar applications.
3. Implement practices that minimize nutrient losses (e.g., conservation tillage).
Monitoring and Adjustment:
1. Conduct regular soil and plant analysis throughout the growing season.
2. Adjust nutrient management plans as needed based on monitoring data.
3. Evaluate and refine strategies for continuous improvement.
Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing:
1. Foster partnerships between farmers, agronomists, and researchers.
2. Participate in extension programs and knowledge transfer activities.
THANK YOU