**5. Soil amendment and fertilization practices**

By promoting soil fertility, nutrient availability, and general soil structure, soil amendment and fertilization practices are essential for enhancing soil health. The following are some essential components of fertilization and soil amendment techniques and how they help to promote soil health: *organic matter addition*: rich sources of organic matter include crop wastes, compost, and manure, improved soil structure, moisture retention, and nutrient-holding capacity [53]. Additionally, feeding beneficial soil organisms, organic matter encourages microbial diversity and activity. *Refueling with nutrients*: fertilizers are used to replenish vital nutrients that the soil may be lacking. In addition to secondary macronutrients like calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, as well as micronutrients like iron, zinc, and manganese, among others, the primary macronutrients for plant growth are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) [54]. Crops are guaranteed to acquire enough nutrients for the best development and production when fertilization is properly balanced. *Nutrient cycling and recycling*: cycling and recycling of nutrients in the soil ecosystem are made possible by organic fertilizers and soil amendments. As nutrients are released through the breakdown of organic materials, plants may now absorb them [55]. By transforming and moving nutrients through biological, chemical, and physical processes, nutrient cycling helps to increase nutrient usage efficiency while minimizing nutrient losses. *pH adjustment*: soil amendments can assist with pH adjustment, which impacts the availability of nutrients. In alkaline soils, elemental sulfur or acidic organic materials can be used to reduce soil pH, whereas lime is frequently used to raise soil pH in acidic soils [56]. The availability and uptake of nutrients by plants are maximized when soil pH is kept at the right level [57]. *Microbial activity promotion*: organic fertilizers and soil additives give beneficial soil microorganisms a home and a food source. These microorganisms, which include bacteria, fungi, and earthworms, support the Composting of organic materials, nutrient cycling, and the prevention of disease. Improved soil structure, nutrient availability, and general soil health are all benefits of healthy microbial communities [58]. *Sustainable nutrient management*: this seeks to

lessen nutrient losses that could harm ecosystems and water quality, such as leaching or runoff. Improved fertilizer input rates, timing, and locations can be achieved by split applications, precision farming, and soil testing, all of which reduce adverse environmental consequences and increase soil health. It is crucial to remember that fertilization and soil amendment techniques should be adjusted to the particular requirements and characteristics of the soil and the crops being grown. Effective and long-term maintenance of soil fertility requires soil testing, nutrient management strategies, and adherence to recommended application rates. Additionally, adopting practices like organic farming, crop rotation, and cover crops can enhance soil health and long-term sustainability by working in conjunction with soil amendment and fertilization techniques.
