THE EFFECTS OF SOIL TILLAGE PRACTICES ON THE PHYSICO-CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF TYPICAL PRELUVOSOIL

Abstract

The paper presents the results of the physico-chemical characteristics of the typical preluvosol soil (SRTS, 2012) in the pedo-climatic conditions of Brebeni, Olt County (Romania) cultivated using two soil management systems: conventional (classical) and conservative (minimum tillage). Agrophysical profiles were made, from which soil samples were taken (physico-chemical on predetermined depths of 5-10 cm; 25-30 cm and 45-50 cm). The analyses and determinations carried out are in accordance with the standardized methodology commonly used in the ICPA Laboratories and those of the County Offices for Pedological and Agrochemical Studies. Minimum tillage technology has a positive influence on the preservation of organic matter and mobile potassium content, thus contributing to the improvement of chemical characteristics, being more favorable for soil fertility, compared to the classical (conventional) technology in which a slight increase of humus and mobile phosphorus is observed, but has disadvantages in the preservation of organic matter in the long term. On medium clay loam texture (5-10; 25-30 cm) and clay loam (45-50 cm), conservative technology (minimum tillage), improves the physical characteristics of the soil, thus, maintains a looser and porous structure on the surface, reduces compaction and improves soil permeability for water, creates a healthy environment for the development and growth of plant roots, influences the rate of water infiltration and leads to better soil aeration, these aspects are essential for soil health compared to conventional technology.