Effects of tillage systems and mulch on soil physical quality parameters and maize (Zea mays L.) yield in semi-arid Pakistan

摘要

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-fs 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.