Effect of subsoiling on soil properties and winter wheat grain yield

A 2-year field experiment was carried out in loessal soil in a semi-humid climate to explore the integrative influences of subsoiling on soil properties and winter wheat grain yield. Results showed that it was essential to deepen the plough pan in loessal soil. The sharply increased soil penetration resistance (>7 MPa) in plough pan under dry soil condition was especially harmful for plant growth. In rotary tillage treatment, the waterlogging conditions caused by shallow plough pan slightly produced macropores and preferential water flow. Significantly, higher grain yield was obtained in the subsoiling tillage treatment, increased by 21.9% in 2016 and 11.3% in 2017, respectively. Subsoiling tillage improved the resilience of winter wheat under adverse climate conditions. Subsoiling tillage should be popularized in loessal soil with shallow plough pan in semi-humid climate. This study may provide valuable information on soil sustainable use and management in loessal soil.