Impact of conservation tillage on soil properties and crop yield: A review

Abstract

Conservation tillage has emerged as a sustainable agricultural practice aimed at improving soil health, reducing environmental degradation, and enhancing crop productivity. This review examines the impact of conservation tillage on key soil properties, including organic matter content, moisture retention, structure, and microbial activity. Furthermore, it evaluates the influence of conservation tillage on crop yield across diverse agro-ecological regions. The findings indicate that conservation tillage significantly improves soil fertility and water-use efficiency while mitigating soil erosion and compaction. Although initial yield reductions may occur due to changes in soil dynamics, long-term adoption often results in stabilized or increased productivity. This review highlights the importance of conservation tillage as a viable strategy for sustainable farming practices, particularly in the context of climate change and global food security. Future research should focus on optimizing conservation tillage techniques for different crops and soil types to maximize benefits.