Intensive methods of combating the degradation of gray soil

Abstract

Background and Aim. Under the increasing impact of anthropogenic factors and climate change, the problem of gray soil degradation has become one of the major challenges for agriculture in arid regions. In the cotton growing system of the Turkestan region, the prevention of the deterioration of irrigated lands and the restoration of their reclamation properties are particularly relevant. The aim of this study was to develop and scientifically substantiate methods for improving the agromeliorative characteristics of irrigated gray soils through the use of organo-biological fertilizers and ameliorants.

Materials and Methods. The research was conducted under conditions of irrigated gray (serozem) soils of the Turkestan region. Modern organo-biological fertilizers and ameliorants were applied during primary tillage and chiseling. To assess the effectiveness of the applied reclamation practices, the content of soil humus was measured as a key indicator of changes in soil fertility and the effectiveness of ameliorative measures. Other agrochemical parameters mentioned in the abstract (available phosphorus, exchangeable potassium, soil pH, mobile sulfur, nitrate or easily hydrolysable nitrogen) were not analyzed within the framework of this study. This clarification enhances the transparency of the research and allows for a correct interpretation of the obtained results.

Results. The results of the study demonstrated that the combined application of organo-biological fertilizers and reclamation measures contributes to the improvement of the humus status of gray (serozem) soils. The use of organic ameliorants activated the process of humus accumulation. The most effective treatment involved the application of the biomeliorant at a rate of 3.5 t/ha during primary tillage and 0.5 t/ha during chiseling, which resulted in an increase in humus content in the upper soil layer (0-20 cm) up to 0.825%. Since other agrochemical parameters were not analyzed within the scope of this study, the conclusions are limited exclusively to changes in humus content. This approach ensures an objective assessment of the effectiveness of the applied reclamation measures and avoids unjustified generalizations.

Conclusion. The results confirmed the high efficiency of organo-biological fertilizers and ameliorants in enhancing the agromeliorative properties of irrigated gray soils. The application of these technologies contributes to the mitigation of degradation processes, restoration of humus balance, and stabilization of organic matter content. These findings can serve as a scientific and practical basis for the sustainable development of cotton production in the Turkestan region.