The effects of mulch and bio-fertilizers on soil properties in organic soybean and buckwheat production

Abstract

Buckwheat and soybean are regarded as important crops in organic production and their production could contribute to achieving farm sustainability. However, this significance derives from a preceding effect, but less research is done on these crops as major crops. The aim of this study is to examine soil properties under different mulches and bio-fertilizers in soybean NS Kaća and buckwheat Novosadska. The experiment was set up in semiarid conditions in the Center for organic production in Selenča with 3 types of mulches: wood chips, straw, living mulch as well as commercial fertilizers and soil enhancers: organic NPK fertilizer, Ascophyllum nodosum extract and microbiological stimulator. Mulches were helpful in maintaining the physical properties of soil, but they could not preserve the chemical properties of soil. Buckwheat manifested better chemical and physical soil properties compared to soybean. Our results showed differences regarding mulch application in terms of impact on soil, which could serve as a basis for improving the management of buckwheat and soybean under organic production systems in semiarid conditions.