CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

2025 APSA Field Crops Webinar - Session 1
22 April 2025 from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm (GMT+7)

SOIL HEALTH

Dr. Tan Wei Loon
Senior Agronomist
Green World Genetics Sdn. Bhd., Malaysia

Profile:
Dr. Tan Wei Loon is an Agronomist at Green World Genetics Sdn. Bhd., specializing in land resource management and soil fertility. As the company’s lead researcher on soil-related challenges, he provides scientific diagnoses and solutions to optimize soil productivity. His current research focuses on 1) Recycling agricultural waste as soil amendment, 2) Enhancing soil fertility in tropical ecosystems, and 3) Exploring and developing media formulations for soilless cultivation

Abstract:
Revitalizing Soil: Role of Biofertilizers in Sustainable Agriculture

Soil health refers to the ability of the soil to function as a vital living ecosystem that sustain productivity, diversity, and terrestrial environmental services.  This concept has gained attention since the late 20th century due to challenges in modern agriculture such as intensive farming, excessive chemical fertilizer use, and poor soil management. These has resulted in negative impacts towards the soil, including declining soil fertility, nutrient depletion, and imbalances. Biofertilizers, which consist of beneficial microorganisms such as nitrogen-fixing bacteria, phosphate-solubilizing microbes, and mycorrhizal fungi, offer a natural and sustainable solution to restore soil vitality. As agriculture shifts towards more environmentally friendly practices, biofertilizers play a crucial role in maintaining healthy soils and crop productivity. In this session, I will discuss the concept of soil health and its importance for sustainable agriculture. I will also present on how the application of biofertilizers can improve soil functions and share recent research on this topic.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Audthasit Wongmaneeroj, 
Department of Soil Science, Kasetsart University and 
Vice President, Soil and Fertilizer Society of Thailand

Profile 
Assistant Professor Audthasit Wongmaneeroj is a faculty member at the Department of Soil Science in the Faculty of Agriculture at Kasetsart University’s Kamphaeng Saen campus in Thailand. His research focuses on soil fertility, fertilizer usage and technology, soil and plant analysis, and the application of geographic information systems and crop modeling for improved crop production. He is actively involved in advancing sustainable soil management practices and innovative fertilizer application techniques. Previously served as Chair of Pillar 5 in the Asian Soil Partnership under the FAO project, leading efforts to harmonize regional strategies for soil health and sustainable agriculture in collaboration with regional experts across Asia.

Abstract
Soil Health for Field Crops Seed Production

Field crop seed production relies on soil health, which refers to the soil’s ability to function as a dynamic, living system that supports plant growth by integrating its physical, chemical, and biological properties. Optimal soil health is characterized by a well-structured texture that facilitates water infiltration, retention, and aeration; a balanced pH; sufficient nutrient availability; and an appropriate concentration of organic matter. Additionally, a diverse community of soil microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and earthworms, plays a crucial role in enhancing nutrient cycling and maintaining soil-plant interactions. Effective soil management involves comprehensive soil testing, integrated nutrient management strategies including the application of compost, crop rotation, green manure, crop residues, animal manure, and appropriate use of chemical fertilizers and conservation practices such as no-till farming, erosion control, and efficient irrigation systems. Despite challenges such as soil degradation and climate variability, the implementation of sustainable, site-specific agricultural practices can preserve soil fertility and support long-term, high-quality seed production.

Event Zone & Time