Impact of tillage practices on soil properties of Emohua-rumuji soils, rivers state, Nigeria

The study was conducted to determine the effect of tillage practices on soil properties under maize cultivation in Rumuji in Emuoha, Rivers State, Nigeria. The tillage systems evaluated were traditional, mulch and No tillage systems. The results showed a significant difference in soil parameters and crop morphologies at p < 0.05 among the tillage systems. The traditional tillage system resulted to the most favorable soil environment, for crop growth and best performance of crop followed by conventional and no-tillage systems in the area studied respectively. The significant difference in yields adduced to lower bulk density, higher water holding capacity and porosity which increased plant root proliferation and optimal utilization of soil nutrients under tillage methods. Hence tillage methods have the capability to increase production, while no-tillage is better under long term production for sustainable landuse.