COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF SOIL PHYSICO-CHEMICAL PROPERTIES UNDER WHEAT AND MAIZE CROPPING SYSTEMS ALONG ALTITUDINAL GRADIENT IN YASIN VALLEY, GILGIT-BALTISTAN

Abstract

Soil analysis is a critical diagnostic tool for assessing soil health, optimizing crop yields, and implementing effective nutrient management strategies. This study conducted a comparative assessment of soil properties under two primary cropping systems, wheat and maize, across various sites in Yasin Valley, District Ghizer. Soil samples were collected at a depth of 0–15 cm to evaluate physico-chemical variations. The results indicated that while both cropping systems maintained a relatively stable pH (mean 7.80), the soils in Yasin Valley are generally alkaline, with an average pH of 8.13. Electrical conductivity (EC) was slightly higher in maize fields (111.0 μS/cm), which predominantly featured a silt-loam texture. Analysis of macronutrients revealed that nitrate-nitrogen (NO3N) and available phosphorus (P) levels were consistent across both systems, whereas exchangeable potassium (K) was marginally higher in wheat fields. Although soil moisture fluctuated between sites, higher mean values were recorded in maize-cultivated areas. One-way ANOVA confirmed that variations in pH (p < 0.005) and EC (p < 0.01) were statistically significant between the two cropping systems, while NO3N, exchangeable K, and available P showed no significant differences. Furthermore, altitude was found to have a negligible influence on soil physico-chemical properties within the study area. These findings suggest that integrated management practices, including the use of organic fertilizers and regular soil monitoring, are vital for maintaining soil productivity. This research provides a baseline for farmers in mountainous regions to improve fertilizer efficiency, enhance crop yields, and support sustainable livelihoods.

Keywords: Soil quality, Cropping systems, Soil health, Nutrient management, Mountain agriculture, Altitudinal variation.