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Straw Returning Methods Affects Macro-Aggregate Content and Organic Matter Content in Black Soils: Meta-Analysis and
Kangmeng Liu1, Yu Hu1, Yumei Li2
1College of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China.
Plants (Basel, Switzerland)
|December 17, 2024
Summary
Returning straw to soil significantly enhances soil organic matter and macro-aggregate content, especially with longer durations and specific incorporation methods. Lower precipitation and higher temperatures further boost these soil improvements.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Soil Science
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Straw returning to soil is a key strategy for increasing soil carbon levels.
- Understanding its impact on soil aggregates and organic matter is vital for sustainable agriculture in the Northeast Black Soil Region.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of straw return practices on soil aggregates and organic matter content.
- To clarify the varying impacts of these practices on soil carbon enhancement in Northeast China.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis of 89 research papers was conducted.
- Linear regression analysis was used to assess the influence of straw return methods, duration, temperature, and precipitation.
- Field validation experiments were also incorporated.
Main Results:
- Straw incorporation significantly increased macro-aggregates (57.14%) and micro-aggregates (20.29%).
- Soil organic matter content in macro-, small, and micro-aggregates increased by 13.22%, 16.43%, and 15.08%, respectively.
- Long-term straw return (>5 years) and shallow mixing yielded the most significant increases in macro-aggregates and their organic matter content.
Conclusions:
- Straw returning is an effective method for improving soil structure and organic matter content.
- The effectiveness of straw return is influenced by the method, duration, and climatic factors like temperature and precipitation.
- Optimal conditions for enhancement include lower precipitation and higher temperatures, promoting macro-aggregate formation and organic matter accumulation.
