A PhD. Dissertation on Soil Health was Defended in the College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences
The doctoral dissertation entitled “The Impact of Crop Rotation of Clover, Yellow Corn, and Legumes, Two Plowing Systems, and Crop Residues on the Fertility and Health of Calcareous Soil” by the student Hussein Taha Radi from the Department of Soil Sciences and Water Resources was successfully defended.
The dissertation aimed to study the role of crop rotation in soil health and productivity, investigate plowing management in soil quality and health, and examine the effect of previous crop residues on various soil properties. It also explored the interaction between these factors on soil fertility, productivity, and health.
The researcher recommended the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, especially the use of previous crop residues by incorporating them into the soil or using them as cover crops. He also suggested using minimal plowing methods or soil disturbance as needed to ensure the preservation of soil structure, stability, organic matter content, and microbial life. Additionally, the importance of crop rotation, particularly with leguminous crops, was emphasized.
The researcher recommended also by continuation of studies in soil health in future research because it is the foundation of agricultural sustainability and its role in food security, which is essential for the stability and well-being of societies.