Different crop rotation patterns vary heavy metals behavior in soils under plastic sheds: Evidence from field research

Facility agriculture improves food supply worldwide. However, heavy metals accumulation in its soils under plastic sheds increases the contamination risk, and little is known about metal's behavior in soils under different rotation patterns. This study investigated total and available Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn in soils under plastic sheds from tomato-cropping (TCC), tomato-leaf vegetable rotation (TVC), tomato-melons rotation (TMC), and fruit-cropping (FLC). Results indicated that accumulations and bioavailability of Cd, Cu, and Zn were severe, and risks of tomato-based rotations were higher than FLC. Geo-accumulation index showed that accumulation of Cu and Zn in soils from TCC was the worst, and Cd in TVC was the highest. Principlecomponent analysis suggested Cu and Zn might be from manures. Linear regression analysis showed significant annual increases of total Cu and Zn in TCC; Cd in FLC and available Cd in TVC should be taken seriously. Different fertilizers and dry matter removal might be reasons for different behaviors of metals. The lowest amounts of both factors in FLC make its soils healthier. Tomato-based patterns should consider more intercropping and rational fertilization, and FLC might be an alternative. Proper fertilization and selection of rotation patterns can prompt soil health of facility farmlands. (c) 2022 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of Institution of Chemical Engineers.

Automated summary

Facility agriculture improves global food supply, but heavy metals accumulation in soils under plastic sheds increases contamination risk. This study investigated heavy metal content and availability in soils under different rotation patterns and found higher risks in tomato-based rotations. Proper fertilization and selection of rotation patterns can promote soil health in facility farmlands.