Cropping systems, effects on soil physical properties

Abstract

Soil physical properties are significantly affected by cropping systems, especially tillage management. Tillage usually reduces soil bulk density and increases soil porosity initially; however, tillage decreases soil organic matter, which can also affect bulk density and porosity. Less frequent tillage and crop rotations with legumes enhance aggregate stability. No-till management tends to increase soil bulk density, increase soil strength, decrease total porosity, increase saturated hydraulic conductivity, and increase infiltration (for well-drained soils). Enhancing residue cover is an important issue for modern conservation crop management systems in order to minimize soil erosion caused by tillage.