Improving Mung Bean Yield: The Impact of Tillage Strategies on Soil Structure: A Review

Abstract

Pulses endowed with unique ability of nitrogen fixation constitute an important component of crop diversification and resource conservation in farming system.   Mung bean is one of the thirteen food legumes grown in India and the third most important pulse crop after chickpea and pigeon pea. Soil tillage systems can influence soil compaction, water dynamics and crop yield. These processes can be expressed as changes in soil microbiological activity, soil respiration and agricultural sustainability. The objective of this paper is to review the impact of tillage practices on soil properties and crop productivity of mung bean. The review synthesizes findings from recent studies and experimental data on tillage practices. Conventional tillage techniques include the incorporation of fertilizers and crop residue, seedbed preparation, aeration of organic matter and the release of nutrients. Tillage practices have an important effect on soil micro structure characteristics, water thermal properties and nutrients, but little is known in the newly reclaimed cultivated land. Tillage properties shows positive effects on soil properties and yield of mung bean. Bulk density decreased due to tillage practices Since tillage fractures the soil, it disrupts soil structure, accelerating surface runoff and soil erosion. Tillage also reduces crop residue, which helps cushion the force of pounding raindrops, and disrupts the microorganisms in the soil, leading to poor soil health. This review summarizes the current knowledge about tillage practices and its impacts on soil properties.