Evaluating the Long-Term Consequences of Fertilizers, Pesticides, and Insecticides on Soil Quality and Crop Sustainability: Addressing Soil Health amid Agrochemical Dependency

Abstract

Background: The widespread use of fertilizers, pesticides, and insecticides has significantly boosted agricultural productivity but raised concerns about its long-term effects on soil health and crop sustainability. This study aims to evaluate the impact of agrochemical dependency on soil quality, focusing on nutrient balance, microbial diversity, and crop productivity. Materials and Methods: Soil samples were collected from agricultural fields subjected to varying levels of agrochemical usage, including high-input, low-input, and organic farming practices. Soil parameters such as pH, organic matter content, nutrient levels (N, P, K), and microbial diversity were analyzed using standard laboratory methods. Crop yield data were also recorded to correlate soil health with productivity. Results: The findings revealed that high-input agrochemical usage resulted in soil acidification, nutrient imbalance, and a decline in beneficial microbial populations. Conversely, organic farming practices maintained higher levels of soil organic matter, improved microbial diversity, and supported balanced nutrient cycling. Moderate agrochemical use showed intermediate effects, suggesting a threshold for sustainable application. Crop yields were initially higher in high-input systems but declined over time due to soil degradation, while organic systems demonstrated stable long-term productivity. Conclusion: Excessive reliance on agrochemicals degrades soil quality and threatens sustainable agriculture. Adopting integrated soil fertility management practices and reducing agrochemical dependency can mitigate these impacts while ensuring crop sustainability.