EJSS

Eurasian Journal of Soil Science

Eurasian J Soil Sci

2147 - 4249

Federation of Eurasian Soil Science Societies

http://ejss.fesss.org/10.18393/ejss.1496891

10.18393/ejss.1496891

Effect of zeolite application on soil enzyme activity of potted sandy soil cultivated with Swiss chard and cabbage

Olwetu Antonia Sindesi SindesiO@cput.ac.za

Muinat Nike Lewu

Bongani Ncube

André Meyer

Azwimbavhi Reckson Mulidzi

Francis Bayo Lewu

284 - 293

2023-12-07

2024-06-03

2024-06-06

2024-09-30

A zeolite pot experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Research Council Infruitec-Nietvoorbij in Stellenbosch, South Africa, under greenhouse conditions. The experiment aimed to investigate the impact of zeolite application on soil enzyme activities in sandy soils cultivated with Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris Var. cicla) and cabbage (Brassica oleracea Var. capitata L.) over two years (2018-2019). Different zeolite-to-soil ratios (0:1, 1:9, 2:8, and 3:7 w/w) were used, with each pot containing 12 kg of soil. The experiment involved 72 pots for each vegetable, arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Soil enzyme activities, including acid phosphatase, β-glucosidase, and urease, as well as soil chemical properties (pH, total plant-available nitrogen, organic carbon, and phosphorus), were analyzed. Key findings indicate that the effect of zeolite application on enzyme activities varied between the vegetable species. Zeolite application significantly increased (P<0.05) soil pH across all treatments. However, higher zeolite levels decreased (P<0.05) soil phosphorus availability, likely due to phosphorus adsorption by zeolite. Acid phosphatase activity decreased with rising zeolite levels, possibly due to increased soil pH. Additionally, zeolite application reduced (P<0.05) soil organic carbon, which may explain some of the enzyme activity responses. Alteration Index Three (AI3) scores suggested improved soil biological activity with zeolite application, although responses varied between crops. Cabbage soils showed improvement in all treatments, while Swiss chard soils exhibited mixed responses. In conclusion, while zeolite application can enhance soil pH and nutrient retention, it may also reduce phosphorus availability and organic carbon. The enzyme activity responses observed are complex and crop-specific, highlighting the need for tailored soil management practices. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term impacts and optimal integration of zeolite with organic amendments for sustainable soil fertility management.

Zeolite, organic carbon content, soil amendment, urease, phosphates, β-glucosidase.

http://ejss.fesss.org/10.18393/ejss.1497455

10.18393/ejss.1497455

Response of β-glucosidase enzyme activity of soil to biochar applications in a crop rotation at Blacksea agroecosystem

Murat Birol muratbirol07@hotmail.com

Hikmet Günal

294 - 302

2023-12-28

2024-06-04

2024-06-07

2024-09-30

The use of biochar has emerged a potentially effective approach to improve soil function and promote crop performance. However, the specific impact of biochar on β-glucosidase enzyme activity (BGA) within crop rotation systems in the Black Sea agroecosystem requires further investigation. This study was conducted to determine the effects of rice husk biochar (RHB) and poultry manure biochar (PMB) on BGA in soils. Six biochar doses (0-control, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 t ha-1) were applied at the beginning of two wheat-cabbage red pepper rotation periods. The mean BGA at second rotation (73.71 µg pNP g-1) was significantly lower compared to the BGA of the first period (93.39 µg pNP g-1). The BGA value in control (94.51 µg pNP g-1) decreased with increasing biochar application doses (76.05 µg pNP g-1, 50 t ha-1) treatment. The mean BGA value in PMB treatment was slightly higher than that of RHB, but it was not statistically different between two biochar types. However, the decrease in BGA value (25.0%) in the highest RHB dose compared to control was more than two-fold compared to the decrease in PMB application (12.1%). The difference in carbon/nitrogen ratio between RHB and PMB can be attributed to the variation in BGA values observed at the application of same biochar doses. The decrease in BGA over the course of the two rotation cycles implies that biochar may have a long-term influence on soil carbon cycling.

Biochar, Biochar type, Poultry manure, Rice husk, Crop Rotation, β-glucosidase.

http://ejss.fesss.org/10.18393/ejss.1509552

10.18393/ejss.1509552

Sustainable agriculture through qanat systems in Karabakh: Water and soil characteristics in the context of climate change

Alovsat Guliyev Elovset_q@mail.ru

Tunzala Babayeva

Rahila Islamzade

Tariverdi Islamzade

Terlan Yelmarlı

Elnur Nesirov

Azade Aliyeva

Nergiz Ashurova

303 - 311

2024-02-04

2024-07-03

2024-06-23

2024-09-30

This study investigates the water quality and soil characteristics associated with qanat systems in the Cebrail district of the Karabakh region, Azerbaijan. Qanat systems, traditional underground channels designed for water transport, play a crucial role in providing reliable water sources for drinking and irrigation. Water and soil samples were collected from seven qanat systems and analyzed for various physicochemical properties. Water quality parameters included pH, electrical conductivity, hardness, mineralization, and concentrations of calcium, magnesium, sodium, and other ions. Soil analyses focused on pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter content, salinization degree, and the presence of key ions like sulfate and nitrate. The results indicated that qanat water is generally of high quality, with pH levels suitable for both drinking and irrigation. However, some qanat systems exhibited high electrical conductivity and mineralization levels, suggesting potential salinity issues for sensitive crops. Soil samples showed favorable conditions for agriculture, with good pH levels, low salinity, and high organic matter content. The analysis revealed a significant interaction between water quality and soil characteristics, emphasizing the importance of integrated management practices. In the context of climate change, the sustainability of qanat systems is critical. Recommendations include regular monitoring of water and soil quality, soil amendments to mitigate salinity, efficient irrigation techniques, and the use of climate-resilient infrastructure. This study underscores the importance of qanat systems in arid and semi-arid regions and provides practical recommendations for sustainable land and water resource management, enhancing the socio-economic well-being of local communities.

Qanat systems, agricultural impact, Karabakh region, soil and water management.

http://ejss.fesss.org/10.18393/ejss.1511141

10.18393/ejss.1511141

The role of zeolite and mineral fertilizers in enhancing Table Beet (Beta vulgaris L.) productivity in dark chestnut soils of Southeast Kazakhstan

Tursunay Vassilina

Beybit Nasiyev

Aigerim Shibikeyeva

Nurzikhan Seitkali

Samalbek Kossanov

312 - 319

2023-11-18

2024-07-01

2024-07-05

2024-09-30

This study evaluated the effectiveness of zeolite, both alone and in combination with mineral fertilizers, in improving the yield and quality of table beets (Beta vulgaris L.) grown in dark chestnut soils of southeast Kazakhstan. The research was conducted at the Kazakh Research Institute of Horticulture during the 2022-2023 growing seasons using a randomized complete block design with six treatments: control (no fertilizers), zeolite 2 t/ha, N45P45K45 (single dose of mineral fertilizers), N90P90K90 (double dose of mineral fertilizers), zeolite 2 t/ha + N45P45K45, and zeolite 2 t/ha + N90P90K90, replicated three times. The application of zeolite significantly improved soil physical properties, such as water permeability and soil density, enhancing root development and water retention. Nutrient availability, particularly nitrate nitrogen and mobile phosphorus, increased significantly in zeolite-treated plots. The combination of zeolite and mineral fertilizers resulted in the highest improvements, with nitrate nitrogen content reaching 40.5 mg/kg and mobile phosphorus 89.2 mg/kg. Moreover, zeolite reduced heavy metal concentrations, particularly cadmium, by 50% compared to the control. Table beet yield significantly increased with zeolite application, with the highest yield of 62.7 t/ha achieved with 2 t/ha zeolite combined with double dose N90P90K90 fertilizers, compared to 42.8 t/ha in the control. Marketable yield also improved, indicating better crop quality. Nutrient composition of the beets improved, with increased dry matter content (21.9%) and reduced nitrate content (240 mg/kg) in zeolite-treated variants. In conclusion, zeolite, especially when combined with mineral fertilizers, effectively enhances soil health, nutrient availability, and table beet yield and quality.

Zeolite, Table beet, dark chestnut soil, nutrient availability, sustainable agriculture.

http://ejss.fesss.org/10.18393/ejss.1520108

10.18393/ejss.1520108

Effect of potassium application on maize to sandy soil under deficit irrigation conditions

Munir J. Rusan mrusan@just.edu.jo

Ayat Al-Masri

Rashid Lubani

320 - 327

2024-03-30

2024-07-19

2024-07-22

2024-09-30

Maize is widely growth in arid and semi-arid region where, drought is common and a limiting factor for crop production. Potassium plays a key role in enhancing plant growth under drought condition. The objective of this study is to determine the effect of K fertilization with and without NP on maize growth grown in sandy loam soil under adequate and deficit irrigation conditions. The following treatments were investigated in pot experiment: (1) control with no fertilizer application (C); (2) 128 kg N + 328 kg P2O5 ha-1 (NPK0); (3) 128 kg N + 328 kg P2O5 ha-1 + 152.5 kg K2O ha1 (NPK1); (4) 128 kg N + 328 kg P2O5 ha-1 + 305 kg K2O ha-1 (NPK2); and 128 kg N + 328 kg P2O5 ha-1 + 457.5 kg K2O ha-1 (NPK3). Treatments were investigated under adequate and deficit soil moisture content. Each pot filled with 3.5 kg air-dry soil and seeded with maize and pots were watered according to the treatments. The results indicated that plant growth and nutrient uptake were significantly reduced under water stress condition. The application of NP increased plant growth and nutrient uptake and further were increased with K application. K application also enhanced plant tolerance to deficit soil moisture condition. In addition, K enhanced nutrient uptake and leaf chlorophyll content. Based on the results, it can be concluded that application of NP for maize was not adequate to achieve the highest plant growth, unless it is combined with K application. In addition, K application enhances plant tolerance to water stress.

Maize, K fertilization, water stress, sandy soil.

http://ejss.fesss.org/10.18393/ejss.1521142

10.18393/ejss.1521142

Impact of phosphorus fertilization on the yield and quality of various Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) varieties in light chestnut soils

Nariman Massaliyev

Sara Ramazanova

Karlyga Karayeva karliga_89@mail.ru

Zhuldyz Oshakbayeva

Aigul Zhamangarayeva

Ashirali Smanov

Nurymzhan Aubakirov

Saken Duisekov

328 - 337

1970-01-01

2024-07-19

2024-07-23

2024-09-30

This study investigates the impact of phosphorus fertilization on the yield and quality of various alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) varieties grown in light chestnut soils. Conducted over a three-year period from 2013 to 2015, the research was carried out in the Karasay district of the Almaty region under irrigated conditions. The experiment included six alfalfa varieties: NS Alfa, VS Banat, Mediana, Nera, Niagara, and Kokoray. Four phosphorus treatments were applied: control (no phosphorus), 60 kg/ha (P60), 90 kg/ha (P90), and 120 kg/ha (P120), using double superphosphate as the phosphorus source. The results demonstrated that phosphorus fertilization significantly enhanced both the yield and quality of alfalfa. Across all varieties, the highest yield was observed with the application of 120 kg/ha phosphorus. For instance, NS Alfa's yield increased from 283.3 c/ha in the control to 349.7 c/ha with P120, reflecting a 23% increase. Similarly, VS Banat and Mediana exhibited yield increases of 23% and 25%, respectively, at the highest phosphorus level. The study also revealed improvements in the nutritional quality of alfalfa hay. Crude protein content increased from 20.3% to 22.0% in NS Alfa, while digestible protein content rose from 11.20% to 12.40%. Other quality parameters, including fat and carotene content, also improved significantly with higher phosphorus levels. Moreover, the availability of nitrate nitrogen and mobile phosphorus in the soil increased progressively with higher phosphorus application rates, contributing to better nutrient uptake and overall plant health. This research underscores the importance of phosphorus fertilization in maximizing alfalfa yield and quality. The findings suggest that the optimal phosphorus application rate for enhancing alfalfa production in light chestnut soils is 120 kg/ha, providing valuable insights for sustainable agricultural practices in similar agro-ecological zones.

Phosphorus fertilization, Alfalfa yield, Alfalfa quality, Light chestnut soils, Sustainable agriculture.

http://ejss.fesss.org/10.18393/ejss.1522102

10.18393/ejss.1522102

Comparative analysis of lowland rice (Oryza sativa L. var. PSB Rc18) performance across different farming systems

Kathlyn L. Quion kathlyn.quion@bisu.edu.ph

Berta C. Ratilla

338 -347

2023-12-08

2024-07-21

2024-07-25

2024-09-30

Organic farming is gaining recognition as a viable alternative to conventional methods, promising soil health preservation and sustained crop productivity with economic benefits. This study evaluated the physiological, growth, and yield responses of the PSB Rc18 rice variety and appraised its economic feasibility under different production systems. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications and three treatments: T1-best bet organic production system, T2-farmers’ organic production system in Leyte, and T3-farmers’ conventional production system in Leyte. The crop growth rate (CGR) of PSB Rc18 remained consistent across the different systems. However, the Net Assimilation Rate (NAR) peaked significantly between 42-56 days after transplanting (DAT) in the T2. Additionally, the Leaf Area Index (LAI) in T1 was comparable to that of T3. Rice grown under T1 reached heading and maturation earlier than T3. Although T3 produced the highest fresh straw, most productive tillers, and heaviest total biomass, the grain yield was similar across all production systems. Economically, T2 outperformed with a superior benefit-cost ratio of $0.55 and $0.94 per USD invested, considering both regular and premium prices for organic palay. These findings highlight organic farming practices' economic and agronomic viability, suggesting that promoting organic farming can be a beneficial alternative to conventional methods in Leyte. This study underscores the potential for integrating organic practices to enhance sustainability and economic outcomes in rice production, making both T1 and T2 significant options for farmers in Eastern Visayas.

Organic production systems, physiological response, profitability analysis.

http://ejss.fesss.org/10.18393/ejss.1522127

10.18393/ejss.1522127

Phytoremediation of contaminated urban soils spiked with heavy metals

Bakhytzhan K. Yelikbayev

Fatima Imanbek

Gulya A. Jamalova

Nicolas E. Kalogerakis

K. Rafiq Islam islam.27@osu.edu

348 - 357

2024-03-11

2024-07-21

2024-07-25

2024-09-30

Urban environments worldwide face toxic heavy metal pollution originating from industrial discharge, municipal waste disposal, vehicular emissions, and atmospheric deposition. Kazakhstan, experiencing accelerated economic growth and extensive mining activities, contends with widespread heavy metal contamination in its soil-plant-air-water ecosystems. This study explores the potential of hyperaccumulating plants for phytoremediation in urban soils of Kazakhstan contaminated with Pb, Cd, and Co. Twelve plant species, including Korean Mint (Lamiaceae), Ornamental Cabbage (Brassica oleracea), Ageratum (Ageratum houstonianum), Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), Amaranth (Amaranthus Perfect and Amaranthus Emerald), Fescue (Festuca glauca), Burning Bush (Kochia scoparia), Marigold (Tagetes patula nana), White Cabbage (Brassica-Cavolo cappuccino BIANKO), Tepary Bean (Phaseolus acutifolius), and Rapeseed (Brassica napus), were evaluated for growth and biomass production in urban soils spiked with two maximum permissible addition (MPA) treatments of Pb, Co, and Cd. The selected plants demonstrated varied responses to heavy metal stress, with Marigold (8.4 g shoot biomass/plant), Korean mint (10.5 g shoot biomass/plant), Rapeseed (19.9 g/shoot biomass), and Tepary bean (25.9 g shoot biomass/plant) exhibiting resilience or tolerance to Pb, Co, and Cd stresses. The results highlight the significant potential of these plants for efficient phytoremediation, showcasing their unique abilities to absorb and accumulate specific metals. Marigold, particularly, displayed noteworthy Pb accumulation (40.3 mg/kg biomass), resulting in reduced residual Pb concentrations in the soil (74.7 mg/kg). Conversely, White cabbage and Amaranth showed limited efficiency in Cd extraction, while Rapeseed and Tepary bean emerged as promising candidates for Cd phytoremediation. This study emphasizes the critical role of tailored plant species selection in designing effective phytoremediation strategies for specific metal-contaminated urban sites. A comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of metal accumulation and residual concentrations is crucial for the development of sustainable and efficient environmental remediation approaches. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term effects of different plant species on soil metal concentrations, refining and optimizing phytoremediation methods for urban soils grappling with toxic heavy metal contamination

Pot culture, lead, cadmium, cobalt, hyperaccumulators, shoot biomass.

http://ejss.fesss.org/10.18393/ejss.1531959

10.18393/ejss.1531959

Impact of petroleum contamination on soil properties in Absheron Peninsula, Azerbaijan

Alovset Guliyev Elovset_q@mail.ru

Rahila Islamzade

Parvana Suleymanova

Tunzala Babayeva

Azade Aliyeva

Xayala Haciyeva

358 - 365

2023-12-05

2024-08-08

2024-08-12

2024-09-30

This study aims to assess the extent of hydrocarbon and heavy metal contamination in soils from specific areas on Azerbaijan's Absheron Peninsula, including Absheron, Suraxanı, and Baku, and to evaluate the impact of this contamination on soil properties. Soil samples were analyzed for Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH) and heavy metals, including aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and iron, alongside assessments of soil physical, chemical and biological properties. The results revealed significant contamination across all studied areas, particularly in Suraxanı, where TPH levels reached 190 ± 20 mg/kg, exceeding the environmental standard of 100 mg/kg. Similarly, Suraxanı soils exhibited alarmingly high concentrations of heavy metals, with aluminum at 30,128 ± 1,500 mg/kg, arsenic at 50.94 ± 2.5 mg/kg, and cadmium at 0.153 ± 0.01 mg/kg, all surpassing acceptable limits. These contaminants severely degraded soil health, evidenced by increased bulk density (1.7 g/cm³ in Suraxanı) and reduced soil porosity. Microbial activity, a key indicator of soil fertility, was also markedly lower in contaminated regions, with the total bacterial count in Suraxanı being less than half that of the uncontaminated area. The findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive soil management practices and stricter environmental regulations to mitigate contamination's adverse effects and protect both ecosystems and public health in Azerbaijan’s petroleum contaminated areas

Soil contamination, hydrocarbons, heavy metals, soil properties, Azerbaijan

http://ejss.fesss.org/10.18393/ejss.1532143

10.18393/ejss.1532143

Enhanced tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) yield and soil biological properties through integrated use of soil, compost, and foliar fertilization under greenhouse conditions

Gulnara Tastanbekova

Zhursinkul Tokbergenova zh.tokbergenova@mail.ru

Dinara S. Sharipova

Aigerim Jantassova

Kulaisha Surimbayeva

Gulfari N. Azhimetova

Asset Zhylkibayev

366 - 375

2023-12-13

2024-08-11

2024-08-22

2024-09-30

This study investigates the combined effects of standard soil fertilization, composted animal manure, and foliar fertilization on tomato yield, soil nutrient content, and soil biological properties under greenhouse conditions. The experiment was conducted from March to October 2023 using a completely randomized block design with four replications. The treatments included: 1) Control (no fertilization), 2) Standard soil fertilization (30 kg N/da, 8 kg P2O5/da, 40 kg K2O/da), 3) Standard soil fertilization + composted animal manure (2 t/da), 4) Standard soil fertilization + foliar fertilization (1 kg 17-17-17/100 liters of water every 20 days), and 5) Standard soil fertilization + compost + foliar fertilization. Tomato seedlings (Solanum lycopersicum L. cv. Roma) were transplanted into pots filled with clay soil. Throughout the experiment, soil moisture content was maintained at field capacity. Plants were harvested on October 30, 2023, and data on fruit yield, soil nutrient content (NPK), and soil biological properties (microbial biomass C, CO2 production, and dehydrogenase enzyme activity) were recorded. The highest yield (4.5 kg/plant) was observed in the treatment combining standard soil fertilization, composted animal manure, and foliar fertilization, representing a 275% increase compared to the control (1.2 kg/plant). The standard soil fertilization treatment alone yielded 2.8 kg/plant (133.3% increase), while the combination with composted animal manure yielded 3.5 kg/plant (191.7% increase), and with foliar fertilization, 3.9 kg/plant (225% increase). Soil analyses showed significant increases in available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the combined treatments. The highest biological properties were also recorded in the combined treatment.

Tomato yield, soil fertilization, compost, foliar fertilization, soil biological properties.