In some cases, nitrogen losses by volatilization are greater under Conservation Agriculture (CA) since crop residues are left on the soil surface rather than incorporation into the soil. CA promotes the increase in surface soil microbes that will at first use nutrients in the residues and then release them to the plants later as they get recycled. However, since CA promotes growing leguminous cover crops, these systems usually experience a net gain in nitrogen since much of nitrogen is "fixed" from the atmosphere rather than mined from the soil. Furthermore, phosphorus losses due to runoff is decreased under CA since the soil remains covered, infiltration is improved, erosion is decreased and soil organic matter in increased. When applying chemical and organic fertilizers, animal manures and composts to soils under Zero tillage (ZT), these materials should be directly injected or band - applied in order to minimize nutrient losses without significantly disturbing the soil.
when CA systems are well-designed and adapted to local conditions, they can improve the SOC content of many soils compared to conventional agricultural systems and that this can lead to significant improvements in soil physical, chemical, and biological properties and productive capacity with lesser losses of nutrients. But for that this system be adapted in specific climates, soil types and communities. Otherwise it will enhance the nutrient losses.
Find the attachment below it will also broaden the vision regarding the CA.
Thanks and best regards
Naqshe Zuhra
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