LONG-TERM IMPACTS OF TILLAGE ON THE SOIL ECOSYSTEM

An overview of the available knowledge of long-term impacts of different tillage systems on the soil is given. Various studies, carried out in Germany, show that with the transition from conventional (CT) to reduced (RT) and no tillage (NT) no reduction in yields is to be expected. Both the concentration and the amount of organic matter in the top soil is increased. However, in the transitional phase nitrogen is accumulated. The biological activity increases as well. The higher compaction has a positive effect on the water holding capacity. On the other hand, the aeration is reduced as well as the thermal conductivity. More stable pore systems cause, on the whole, a higher infiltration capacity and a reduction in erosion. The factors of influence are developed to a different extent, depending on soil texture and climate.