Author
 |
Abdul Baki, Aref |
|
Submitted to: Tillage Conference Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings Publication Acceptance Date: 9/23/1998 Publication Date: N/A Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: This manuscript discusses proper soil management and cultural practices that can prevent soil erosion and loss of nutrients, and build up soil organic matter content in order to improve the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils. Economic approaches to soil improvement and crop productivity are presented in a management system that incorporates no-tillage and implements intercropping of legume cover crops into the vegetable rotation. The positive impacts of this system on soil, yield and environment are described. This information is useful to large- and small-scale vegetable growers, home gardeners, scientists, extension specialists, horticulturists, consumers, and environmentalists. Technical Abstract: Attaining a high level of soil fertility in an economically feasible management approach requires stopping losses of top soil by water and wind erosions, and building up soil nutrients and organic matter content. These essential requirements can be met by implementing a no-tillage production system that incorporates legume cover crops into the vegetable production rotation. Specific successful case studies on the application of no-tillage and the use of cover crops to produce summer and fall vegetables are presented. The suggested approach guarantees soil fertility, reduces the need for pesticides, commercial fertilizers and plastic mulches, and increases yields without any additional cost. |
