A study on soil properties during the summer fallow season considering crop and soil practices

Abstract

Soil can be defined as "material composed of mineral particles and organic remains that overlies the bedrock and supports the growth of rooted plants" ( Goudie et al., 1994: 461). Factors of soil formation include climate, topography, parent material, time and organisms. Soil is an open dynamic system, highly responsive to inputs and outputs of chemical and physical properties. The continuous supply of organic matter, nutrients and water improve the soil properties and help to control the soil fertility. The soils of the Maltese Islands have been used for agricultural purposes for nearly 5,000 years. Over this time, man has developed an intimate relationship with the soil, evident by the intensive agricultural practices and high crop yields. Soil is one of the most important resources on the island since it is the medium from which the crops grow and as such should be conserved. This study focuses on physical and chemical properties of fallow soils during the summer season. Six field sites were chosen located in the south-west of Malta. The soils consisted of Terra soils and Xerorendzinas. The properties taken in consideration include the moisture content, particle density, particle size distribution, pH levels, organic matter content, nitrate-nitrogen, potassium and sulphate. Interpretation of the data is related to the crops cultivated and soil practices in the field under study. The properties were determined by laboratory testing. The Plant-Health Laboratory at Ghammieri, Luqa was utililised for these purposes. Suggestions are provided to improve the soil fertility of the fallow soils in the Maltese Islands