IMPACT OF ORGANIC SOIL AMENDMENTS ON SOIL FERTILITY AND YIELD PERFORMANCE OF MAIZE (ZEA MAYS L.) UNDER SUSTAINABLE FARMING SYSTEMS

Sustainable agriculture has become increasingly important as excessive dependence on chemical fertilizers has contributed to soil degradation, nutrient imbalance, and environmental pollution. Organic soil amendments provide an environmentally friendly alternative capable of improving soil fertility while maintaining crop productivity. The present study evaluated the effects of different organic amendments on soil physicochemical properties and maize yield. Four treatments comprising farmyard manure, vermicompost, poultry manure, and a control were arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Soil samples were analyzed before planting and after harvest for pH, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and microbial biomass. Growth parameters including plant height, leaf number, biomass accumulation, and grain yield were recorded. Results demonstrated that vermicompost significantly enhanced soil organic carbon, nitrogen availability, microbial biomass, and grain yield compared with the control. Poultry manure produced comparable improvements, while farmyard manure showed moderate effects. The findings indicate that organic amendments can substantially improve soil fertility and crop productivity while reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers. Adoption of organic nutrient management practices contributes to sustainable agricultural production and environmental conservation.