Soil hydrologic properties in permanent raised beds-A field study experiment on wheat-maize cropping systems

Permanent raised beds (PRB) are widely applied in agriculture around the World and have proven to be an excellent option for crops (wheat, maize, etc.). In particular, they have the potential to conserve soil and water resources in agricultural production globally. Many researchers are studying the effects of PRB on soil chemical properties (N, P, K, and SOC), plant growth characteristics, and water use efficiency in different regions. However, few experiments have investigated the soil's hydraulic performance. In this study, a 6-year field experiment was conducted under a maize-wheat rotation cropping system in North China Plain (NCP). The effects on the soil's hydraulic properties of no-tillage (NT) and traditional tillage (TT) on flat fields and no-till PRB treatments were assessed. Specifically, nine soil samples were collected at 0-15 cm depth and 15-30 cm depth to assess the soil's hydraulic performance. The results showed that the total porosity under PRB (42.1%, 15-30 cm) was significantly improved by 13.5% compared to TT (37.1%, 15-30 cm). The soil organic carbon under PRB (8.65%, 15-30 cm) was increased by 13.82% compared to TT (7.6%, 15-30 cm). Changes in the slope (b) of the soil water retention characteristic curve under the PRB (7.2, 15-30 cm) treatment were indicative of an improvement in the pore size distribution, increased soil water retention, and greater infiltration rates. In addition, positive changes in lateral water infiltration from furrow irrigation were observed under PRB (over 25 mm min(-1) in 45 min). These improved soil physical parameters demonstrated that PRB can offer more possibilities for water conservation in the field. In addition, the application of PRB and the principles of conservation agriculture have potential for the effective of water use efficiency and for improving the quality of soil.

Automated summary

Permanent raised beds (PRB) are widely used in agriculture for conserving soil and water resources. This study evaluated the effects of PRB on soil hydraulic properties in North China Plain. The results showed that PRB improved soil porosity, organic carbon content, water retention, and infiltration rates. PRB application can enhance water use efficiency and improve soil quality.