Abstract

This study investigated the effects of short-term tillage practices on soil properties, root architecture and crop yield of maize under maize based cropping systems. A randomized complete block design with four replications was employed to evaluate four tillage treatments: no-till with 20% residue retention (NT), minimum tillage (MT), conventional tillage (CT) and permanent broad bed furrow (PBBF). Conservation tillage practices, particularly NT and PBBF, positively influenced soil properties and maize yield. These practices reduced soil bulk density and compaction, especially in the subsoil (20-40 cm) under NT. Soil organic carbon (SOC) content in the 0-20 cm depth was significantly higher in NT and PBBF systems. NT also exhibited the highest root mass density at deeper soil depths (30-40 cm). Significant plasticity (p<0.001) was observed in root morphological traits, including brace root angle (BA) and branching (BB) and crown root angle (CA) and branching (CB), under different tillage practices, with the greatest reductions observed under NT. Overall, NT with 20% residue retention proved most beneficial for soil health and optimizing maize yield in this cropping system.

Devi, A.G., Das, A., Rangappa, K., Devi, H.L., Das, B., Choudhury, B.U., Mishra, V.K., 2024. Impact of tillage on maize root architecture, soil health and productivity in maize-based cropping systems. Research Biotica, 2024, online first.