Significance of Biological Nitrogen Fixation and OrganicManures in Soil Fertility Management

A review of the literature on the role of leguminous crops and organic manures in soil fertility management confirmed that they can enhance soil productivity. The effect of legume crops is discussed primarily from the viewpoint of the transfer of N to associated and succeeding crops. The extent of crop response to organic manure, i.e., farmyard manure (FYM), undecomposed crop residue, and green manure, varies with location, time and method of application, and environmental conditions. Organic manure influences soil productivity through its effect on physical, chemical, and biological soil properties.