Launching Leaf Analysis Calibration Activities in Mahagirilla and Kotawehera ASCs – Kurunegala District

The Nationwide Leaf Analysis Calibration Programme has officially commenced field activities in the Kurunegala District, beginning with the Mahagirilla ASC and Kotawehera ASC – two major agricultural service centers within the district. These areas represent significant cultivation zones and provide a strong foundation for strengthening nutrient calibration efforts in the region.

Kurunegala holds considerable geographical importance as it lies predominantly within Sri Lanka’s Intermediate Agro-Ecological Zone, characterized by moderate rainfall and distinct dry periods. The district features diverse soil groups, including Reddish Brown Earth (RBE) soils, Low Humic Gley soils in paddy fields, and Alluvial soils in riverine areas. This variability in soil and climate conditions makes Kurunegala a scientifically valuable district for refining location-specific fertilizer recommendations.

 Kurunegala’s Agricultural Significance

Agriculture in Kurunegala spans multiple soil series, rainfall patterns, and farming practices. Such variability presents both opportunities and challenges in fertilizer management. By systematically collecting leaf and soil samples from selected fields across the district, the programme captures real field-level data that reflects actual soil fertility status and crop nutrient uptake.

This data-driven approach strengthens the reliability of fertilizer recommendations by ensuring they are tailored to specific local conditions rather than relying on generalized standards.

Science in Action: From Field to Laboratory

The calibration process integrates:

• Soil analysis – assessing nutrient availability and soil health
• Leaf analysis – evaluating nutrient uptake directly from the crop

Leaf samples are tested for major nutrients such as Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Sulphur (S), along with essential micronutrients. This dual diagnostic method provides a clearer picture of both soil nutrient supply and plant demand.

Supporting Smarter Farming Decisions

Historically, fertilizer recommendations have often followed uniform guidelines that may not reflect changing soil conditions. Over time, this can lead to inefficient fertilizer use, increased costs, and nutrient imbalances.

By extending the calibration programme to Kurunegala District, the initiative promotes:

• Precision nutrient management
• Reduced unnecessary fertilizer application
• Improved crop productivity
• Long-term soil sustainability

Moving Toward a Data-Driven Agricultural Future

The collection of samples from Kurunegala District significantly enriches the national nutrient database. Each dataset strengthens calibration accuracy and supports the development of site-specific fertilizer strategies that align with real crop requirements.

With Mahagirilla and Kotawehera ASCs now engaged, the programme takes another important step toward building a scientifically robust, district-level framework for sustainable and precision-based agriculture in Sri Lanka.

“Know your soil. Empower your decisions. Build sustainable agriculture”