Effects of Tillage Systems and Mulch on Soil Physical Quality Parameters and Maize (Zea maysL.) Yield in Semi-Arid Pakistan

Abstract

Appropriate tillage practices and mulch application are needed for sustainable crop production without affecting soil physical health and the environment. Tillage and mulch effects were studied on maize for two years from 2002 to 2003. Crop grain yield and growth parameters including plant height, dry biomass, 1000-grain weight and soil physical properties (water use efficiency, bulk density, total porosity and field saturated hydraulic conductivity) were measured. Maize yields and growth components were significantly affected by tillage and mulch application. Taller plants, greater dry biomass, grain yield and grain weight were obtained under tilled (minimum, conventional and deep tillage) than ZT (zero tillage) plots. Similar trends were found regarding mulch application. Tillage and mulch significantly affected soil physical properties in most cases except for soil bulk density which was not affected by tillage in both years. Total porosity, soil K,, and WUE were significantly and positively affected by both tillage and mulch as higher values were observed under tilled and mulched plots compared with ZT and without mulch. Maize shoot N concentration was not affected by tillage in both years, whereas mulch effect on shoot N was significant in only one year.

Effect of Cropping System under Tillage and Mulching on Soil Physical Properties and Water Use Efficiency by Maize (Zea mays L.) in Southern Benin

“…Tillage and mulching and their interaction did not significantly affect the soil bulk density. This result is in agreement with those of [43]. According to Husnjak, et al [44], tillage at the beginning of the growing season temporarily decreases soil bulk density but subsequent trips in the field for agronomic practices, rainfall events, and other disturbances activities can recompact the soil.…”

Effect of Conservation Agriculture on Maize-based Farming System in the Mid-hills of Nepal

“…Thus, results failed to demonstrate increase in maize yield due to CA systems. However, results also did not support previous findings claiming significant yield loss of maize under minimum tillage [27]. Maize being the most important crop and the main staple food for poor farmers in hill region of Nepal, the need for a yield increasing technology is critical.…”

Crop Upgrading Strategies and Modelling for Rainfed Cereals in a Semi-Arid Climate—A Review

“…Reduced tillage and zero tillage India [106,107], Ethiopia [108], Mexico [109,110], Canada [111], Pakistan [112][113][114] It may be applied when onset is uncertain and for conserving soil moisture and nutrients…”