Spatial analysis of selected soil parameters in potato growing areas of mountainous region of gilgit-baltistan, pakistan

The study explores the spatial variability of soil parameters in potato growing valleys of CKNP region, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Soil sample's location was documented through handheld GPS. Investigation reveals that soil of study area varies from loam to silty loam having pH values from 7.23 to 8.30 along with 0.45-1.39 electrical conductivity. Soil organic matter was found adequte in 1.04% tested samples. None of the samples had adequate level of NO3-N. However, adequate PO4-P and K was detected in above 90% tested samples. GIS maps indicates that soil parameters were spatially distributed amongst the valleys or even within the same valley. Digital mapping is an important action that provides vital information about soil nutrients, leading to a sustainable agriculture operation. GIS maps will help potato growers in crop management decisions like efficient utilization of fertilizer, reducing cost of production which will be resulted in increase productivity. Study will improve farmer's livelihood and play a vital role in reducing environmental pollution. (author)