A comparison of subsoiling and zero tillage on soilproperties and crop yield

摘要

The physical soil properties, yield and socio-economic benefits were analyzed on thebasis of conventional tillage, subsoiling and no-tillage. The study demonstrated that subsoilingand no-tillage with mulching improved soil structure, reduced runoff, and increased soil moisture.Net income improved through increased yields, reduced fieldwork and lower input costs. Theimproved soil physical properties and crop yield indicated that no-tillage was more beneficial tosoil conditions and high yields were maintained without any tillage for at least 10 years.Subsoiling can improve yield and increase soil moisture compared to no-tillage, but it is notsignificant. Subsoiling reduced net income compared to no-tillage, therefore subsoiling wasuneconomical and not necessary on an annual basis, in the present operating system.