A004B005 Soil Science and the Basics of Agrochemistry, (Assoc. Prof. PhD Romutė Mikučionienė, 6 ETC)
This course introduces the fundamental concepts, objectives, and research methods of soil science and agricultural practices. It explores the origin, composition, classification, and functions of soil, as well as the principles of sustainable land use and plant productivity. Students will gain knowledge of both Lithuanian and international soil classification systems and develop an understanding of soil fertility, degradation, and the role of soil in crop cultivation and agricultural systems.
· Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- Explain the concepts, scope, and objectives of soil science and its development globally and in Lithuania.
- Describe geological processes shaping the Earth's surface and identify major minerals and rocks.
- Analyze soil composition, profile, and macromorphological features.
- Understand and apply soil classification systems (LTD-99 and WRB 2024).
- Evaluate the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil, the factors causing its degradation, and methods of soil protection
- Evaluate soil fertility, degradation, and their effects on plant growth.
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Fundamentals of Soil Agrochemistry and Principles of Plant Nutrition. Fertilizer Classification, Selection, and Timing for Different Crops
- Teacher: Romutė Mikučionienė
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
Ø Understand principles of efficient and sustainable land management.
Ø Learn agronomic principles of crop rotation, understand classification of rotation systems. Recognize the role of catch/intermediate crops.
Ø Formation of Soil Properties through Tillage: understand how tillage affects soil structure, density, and compaction; learn about soil water and air regimes and biological processes, assess the thickness and quality of the arable layer.
Ø Tillage and Farming Systems: understand objectives, technological processes, and methods of tillage; learn about different tillage systems and farming systems.
Ø Agricultural Machinery and Implements: be introduced to technical characteristics and practical uses of machinery and implements used in agriculture. learn to select appropriate machinery for sowing, planting, and plant maintenance. Understand equipment and machinery for managing abandoned areas, plant watering, protection against diseases and pests, and care of woody plants.
- Teacher: Romutė Mikučionienė
- Teacher: Asta Ramaškevičienė
