Student Research Reports
A Comparative Study of Soil Fertility between Mesa and Foothill Sides in Phu Sing hill , Sahatsakhan District, Kalasin Province
Organization(s):Kalasinpittayasan
Country:Thailand
Student(s):Kanyanat khamhongsa, Kornwipa Chardgarm, Nobpakorn Hansena, Supatchaya Ruangchai,
Thadaphorn Supasil,
Grade Level:Secondary School (grades 9-12, ages 14-18)
GLOBE Member(s):Chumpon Chareesaen
Contributors:
Report Type(s):Virtual Science Symposium Report
Protocols:Soil Temperature, Soil pH, Soil Fertility
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Language(s):English
Date Submitted:2026-01-30
This research investigates the spatial variability of soil chemical fertility within the
unique geological setting of Phu Sing hill , Sahatsakhan District, Kalasin Province. The study
aims to characterize and compare the fertility status and chemical composition of soils
located in two sides of the hill zones the flat-topped Mesa side and the Foothill side .
Understanding these chemical distinctions is crucial for developing site-specific nutrient
management strategies and leaching processes in the area.The statific analysis yielded
significant differences between the two topographical zones. regarding soil reaction, both
areas exhibited Potassium (K) conditions, though the Mesa soil presented a slightly higher pH
of 7.54, compared to the Foothill soil, which had a pH of 7.22. This pH range suggests that
while both soils are generally suitable for cultivation, the availability of certain
micronutrients might be limited, necessitating careful management.A detailed assessment of
basic nutrients (N-P-K) revealed a consistent trend where the Foothill topography
demonstrated superior fertility levels. Specifically, the Foothill soil contained significantly
higher concentrations of all major nutrients: Nitrogen (N) at 28.60 mg/kg, Phosphorus (P) at
112.80 mg/kg, and Potassium (K) at 105.60 mg/kg. In contrast, the Mesa soil showed
comparatively lower nutrient reserves, with Nitrogen levels at 12.80 mg/kg, Phosphorus at
76.60 mg/kg, and Potassium at 69.00 mg/kg.The results indicate that the Foothill area show a
richer nutrient accumulation, because due to organic matter deposition and leaching
processes from higher elevations. Notably, Phosphorus levels in both areas are exceptionally
high, particularly in the Foothill zone. Consequently, agricultural planning for the Mesa area
should increase nitrogen and potassium enrichment to solve the fertilities problem, whereas
management in the Foothill area should focus on maintaining nutrient balance and
monitoring potential phosphorus run-off