Ad-Hoc Recommendations for Phosphorus Fertilizer Use in Himachal Pradesh

Nauni, January 29, 2025: Dr. YS. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, has issued updated ad-hoc recommendations regarding the use of phosphorus fertilizers based on comprehensive soil analysis in Himachal Pradesh.
The University's NABL-accredited Advanced Soil and Leaf Analysis Laboratory and Soil Testing Laboratory at Krishi Vigyan Kendra Shimla, Rohru, analyzed 3,698 soil samples to assess phosphorus levels across both conventionally fertilized soils and natural farming systems. The analysis revealed high quantity of phosphorus in soils and therefore farmers are advised to apply recommended dose of phosphorus in the alternate year. The findings have led to the following fertilizer application guidelines for both systems:
Ad-Hoc Recommendations for Conventional Chemical Farming Systems:
1.      Apply recommended doses of phosphorus in every alternate year and use straight phosphatic fertilizers (Single Super Phosphate*) in alternate years in place of complex phosphatic fertilizers (12:32:16).
2.      Apply recommended dose(s) of Nitrogen(N) and Potassium(K) fertilizers.
Recommendations for Natural Farming Systems:
1.    Replace chemical fertilizers with natural farming inputs or decoctions. Soil analysis of natural farming systems indicated high levels of available phosphorus, with no deficiencies in micronutrients.
According to government data, Himachal Pradesh's total fertilizer consumption was 55.98 thousand metric tonnes in 2021-22, 57.85 thousand metric tonnes in 2022-23, and 52.38 thousand metric tonnes in 2023-24. Of this, phosphorus-based fertilizers accounted for 9.17, 10.89, and 10.00 thousand metric tonnes, respectively.
Dr. Sanjeev Chauhan, Director of Research, emphasized, “The university’s recommendations aim to optimize phosphorus fertilizer use, potentially reducing fertilizer expenditure without compromising crop productivity.”

Note*: Single Super Phosphate (SSP) is a multi-nutrient fertilizer containing available 16% P2O5 (14.5 % water soluble) endowed and ingrained with 11% Sulphur, 21% Calcium and also covers under NBS (Nutrient Based Subsidy) in the state.