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Some Effects of Kudzu versus Continuous Corn on Soil Properties and Crop Yields
Author(s) -
Jordan Howard V.,
Crockett S. P.,
Bardsley Charles E.
Publication year - 1956
Publication title -
soil science society of america journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.836
H-Index - 168
eISSN - 1435-0661
pISSN - 0361-5995
DOI - 10.2136/sssaj1956.03615995002000020021x
Subject(s) - kudzu , agronomy , legume , bulk density , crop rotation , environmental science , nitrogen , cover crop , perennial plant , phosphorus , crop , soil water , chemistry , biology , soil science , medicine , alternative medicine , organic chemistry , pathology , traditional chinese medicine
In a continuing study of means of improving a soil with genetic pan, kudzu, a deep‐rooted perennial legume, was introduced in rotation with corn. Following 4 years of kudzu, the nitrogen, organic carbon, and exchangeable potassium in the 0 to 12‐inch soil were higher than in continuous corn plots. The bulk density was lower, and the porosity, aggregation, and intrinsic permeability were higher on the kudzu plots. Evidence, both from soil moisture studies and from uptake of deeply‐placed radioactive phosphorus, indicated deeper rooting of corn following the kudzu. Corn yields were increased as a result of growing the legume, and, particularly in the absence of the legume, by supplemental nitrogen. Some data on the persistence of these effects are reported.