(IPPM) in Vegetables - Vegetableipmasia.org

Resource Manual on IPPM in Rice
World Education Philippines, Inc.
a) Soil pH
This is an important characteristic of the soil since it gives a relative measure
of the availabilities and proportions of the nutrient elements present in the soil.
It is also needed to determine when to add lime.
b) Soil N
This is to determine the available N in the soil. However, nitrogen releases in
the soil is greatly affected by environmental factors.
c) Soil P
The soil phosphorus test determines the available phosphorus in the soil in the
calcium phosphate form.
d) Soil K testing
Soil K testing aims to measure the exchangeable potassium level. Maintenance
of a high level of exchangeable potassium is highly desirable for assurance of
high yields.
Interpretation and Recommendation
The most critical part in any soil test is making the recommendation. In doing this,
one needs to consider the following information:
· Past cropping and fertilizer history
· Physical properties of the soil such as texture, slope and internal drainage.
· Results of the chemical tests.
· Crop to be grown next.
· Results of the fertilizer experiments conducted on soils of similar texture.
· Yield level.
M. Seedbed Preparation and Management
Seedbed preparation and management is the single most important factor in the
success of any vegetable planting. The seedbed must be smooth and weed free. Weeds
will compete with seedlings for nutrients, water and sunlight. If not controlled they
can considerably delay the growth and maturation of the seeds. A smooth, clump-free
seedbed will guarantee firm contact between the soil and seed, thus enhancing seed
germination.
1. Steps when Preparing the Seedbed
The most important single factor in preparing a good seedbed is timeliness -
choosing the right time to plow, the right time to disc, the right time to harrow.
Methods of preparing a good seedbed vary with different soils, so one must select
from the four steps below, the operations which most nearly fit the soil:
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