ASSESSMENT OF SOIL NUTRIENT DEPLETION UNDER INTENSIVE FARMING SYSTEMS

Abstract

Intensive farming systems have increased agricultural output, but continuous cultivation, repeated tillage, high crop removal, and insufficient organic matter recycling have accelerated the decline of essential soil nutrients. This paper assesses soil nutrient depletion under intensive farming by examining changes in major soil fertility indicators, including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, organic matter, soil pH, and nutrient balance across cultivated fields. The findings indicate that long-term intensive production reduces soil organic matter and weakens nutrient retention capacity, making crops increasingly dependent on external fertilizer inputs. Nitrogen depletion was most strongly associated with repeated cereal-based cropping and low residue return, while phosphorus and potassium decline reflected both crop uptake and limited replenishment through balanced fertilization. The results further suggest that nutrient depletion is not uniform across soil depth; the upper soil layer showed faster nutrient loss because of greater root activity, tillage disturbance, and nutrient extraction. Declining organic matter emerged as a central driver of reduced soil fertility because it affects microbial activity, aggregate stability, water-holding capacity, and nutrient cycling. The study highlights that intensive farming without integrated nutrient management can produce short-term yield gains but may reduce long-term soil productivity and farm sustainability. Sustainable solutions require balanced fertilizer application, crop rotation, residue incorporation, compost or manure addition, cover cropping, and periodic soil testing. Overall, the assessment shows that soil nutrient depletion is a serious challenge for intensive farming systems and must be addressed through soil-conserving practices that maintain productivity while protecting the natural fertility base.