Impact of different tillage practices on soil physical properties, nitrate leaching and yield attributes of maize (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

Tillage, undoubtedly, is one of the most crucial practices to ameliorate crop productivity and maintain soil health. A field experiment was conducted at research farms; Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan to examine how soil properties and maize crop respond to different tillage strategies (minimum, conventional and deep tillage). Randomized complete block design (RCBD) was finalized for the experiment with three repeats. Maximum total biomass production and grain yield were recorded in case of deep tillage practices. Conventional tillage not only improved leaf area index but also harvest. Minimum tillage minimized the leaching of nutrients especially nitrates. Soil bulk density (Mg m-3), particle density, soil organic carbon (g kg-1), infiltration rate (mm hr-1), percent porosity (%) and soil saturated hydraulic conductivity (mm hr-1) got affected by different tillage practices. Minimum tillage is suggested to avoid leaching losses of nutrients, this loss reduces the crop productivity.