Vol. 11, Special Issue 3 (2022)

Author(s):
Sandeep Bedwal, Kuldeep, Satender Kumar and Charan Singh

Abstract:
Organic manures have been used as a nutrient source since the dawn of agriculture, but after the widespread usage of inorganic fertilizers, bulky organic manures became the second best option for nutrients. In this regard, the use of treated sewage sludge as an organic source is a critical tool that is gaining attraction among farmers and government agencies due to its high nutrient content and abundance. The addition of sewage sludge to the soil system enhances soil chemical, biological, and physical features, as well as soil structure, porosity, compaction, and crusting, as well as the total water holding capacity of the soil. It can be used alone but its application with inorganic fertilizers was found to be a better combination for soil health. Sewage sludge also increase the biological activity of the soil. However, because heavy metals like nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) are typically detected in sewage sludge, its long-term usage in agriculture requires extra caution due to the danger of phytotoxicity.