Response of Soil Physical, Chemical, and Biological Properties to Tillage and Subsoiling in Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) Cultivation

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Associate Professor, Department of Soil Science, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran.

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Plant Production and Genetics, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Engineering, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of three tillage systems (conventional, reduced, and no-tillage), subsoiling, and safflower cultivation on soil physical, chemical, and biological properties using a split-split-plot design. Results indicate that tillage management significantly affects soil quality. Compared to conventional tillage, no-tillage and reduced tillage systems offer superior conditions by minimizing mechanical disturbance and retaining plant residues. These practices were associated with increased soil organic matter, organic carbon, and microbial biomass carbon. While conventional tillage exhibited higher basal soil respiration, this is indicative of accelerated organic matter mineralization and structural disturbance, rather than improved biological quality. In contrast, conservation tillage systems fostered more stable conditions for carbon retention and biological activity. Safflower cultivation further improved biological indicators through root exudates and residue integration, while the impact of subsoiling varied by tillage system. In conclusion, conservation tillage, particularly no-tillage, shows significant potential for maintaining and enhancing soil properties in the short term.

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Iranian Journal of Soil and Water Research

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 07 June 2026

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