Evaluation of Soil Nutrient Content and Fertility in Main Dry Farming Regions of Laos

[Objectives] To evaluate the status of soil nutrient and fertility in main dry farming regions of Laos, and to explore differences in soil nutrient content between regions and crop types. [Methods] By collecting 57 soil samples in the 0-20 cm layer of the main dryland in southern and northern provinces of Laos. Soil pH, organic matter, total nitrogen, available nitrogen, available phosphorus, available potassium, exchangeable calcium, exchangeable magnesium and available zinc content were analyzed. [Results] The soil in the main dry farming regions of Laos was acidic, the overall fertility level was good, and the exchangeable calcium and magnesium contents were low. There were differences in soil nutrient content in the dry farming regions of southern and northern Laos. Drylands where cassava and maize were planted had higher fertility. [Conclusions] It is suggested to apply lime or alkaline fertilizer in the dry land with acid soil to increase soil pH and increase the supply of soil calcium and magnesium. Organic fertilizer should be applied to improve soil water retention capacity, and it is necessary to pay attention to the fertilization ratio of macroelements to balance fertilization.