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METHODS FOR IMPROVING SOIL BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES
Usmonov Saminjon Olimovich
Kokand State University
Annotation:
This extended article deeply analyzes the importance and modern methods of
improving soil biological properties. It comprehensively covers aspects such as the complex role
of microorganisms in enhancing soil fertility, the biochemical cycling of organic matter, the
ecological benefits of minimal tillage, and the agronomic effectiveness of crop rotation. The
article also includes information on new approaches, including bio-stimulants and soil biomass
monitoring.
Keywords:
soil fertility, biological properties, microorganisms, organic matter, minimal tillage,
crop rotation, compost, bio-fertilizers, soil degradation, bio-stimulants, soil biomass,
phytoremediation, agroecology.
Introduction
Soil is a complex ecosystem of living organisms, and its health and fertility determine the
sustainability of not only agriculture but also the entire ecological system. The biological
properties of soil reflect its ability to provide nutrients for plants, retain water and air, and
neutralize harmful substances. A single gram of healthy soil contains billions of bacteria,
millions of fungi, thousands of protists, and other microfauna, which play an incomparable role
in decomposing organic matter, converting nutrient elements, and forming soil structure.
Currently, due to intensive farming methods, excessive use of chemical substances, and improper
soil management, soil degradation has become a serious global problem. This situation reduces
the biological activity of the soil, decreases its fertility, and ultimately threatens food security.
Therefore, understanding the biological properties of soil and improving them with effective
methods is a priority task of modern agronomy.
Soil Biological Properties and Extended Methods for Their Improvement
There are many integrated approaches to improving the biological properties of soil. These not
only increase yield but also have a positive impact on the environment.
1. Optimizing Soil Organic Matter Balance
Organic matter serves as an energy and nutrient source for soil microbes, and improves the soil's
water-holding capacity, aeration, and nutrient retention. Synergistic Effect of Manure and
Compost: Manure is not only a source of nutrients but also introduces numerous microorganisms
into the soil. Compost, on the other hand, is a product rich in humic substances formed by the
decomposition of various organic residues (plant residues, food waste, animal products) by
microbes. The application of compost increases the cation exchange capacity of the soil, which
ensures the retention of nutrient elements in the soil and prevents their leaching. It promotes the
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formation of soil aggregates, strengthening the soil structure. Green Manures (Siderates) and
Their Biological Mechanisms: Siderate crops (e.g., legumes – vetch, alfalfa, clover) form a
symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria (Rhizobium) in their roots, converting
atmospheric molecular nitrogen into a form usable by plants (ammonium). This naturally
enriches the soil with nitrogen. The deep-penetrating root systems of siderates loosen the soil,
bring nutrients from deeper layers to the surface, and provide new carbon sources for the soil
biomass. Leaving Plant Residues in the Soil (Mulching): Leaving crop residues in the field after
harvest reduces soil surface erosion, slows down water evaporation, and stabilizes soil
temperature. These residues serve as a continuous nutrient source for microorganisms, gradually
enriching the soil's organic matter and activating soil fauna (e.g., earthworms).
2. Supporting and Introducing Microorganisms
In increasing soil biological activity, it is crucial to directly introduce beneficial microorganisms
or stimulate their natural development. Bio-fertilizers and Their Types: Bio-fertilizers contain
nitrogen-fixing (e.g., Azotobacter, Azospirillum, Rhizobium), phosphate-solubilizing (Bacillus
megaterium, Pseudomonas striata), potassium-mobilizing (Bacillus mucilaginosus) bacteria, and
other beneficial microorganisms. They convert difficult-to-dissolve nutrient elements into an
easily absorbable form for plants, thereby reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. Bio-
stimulants: These preparations are natural substances that stimulate plant growth and
development and increase their stress resistance. They may contain humic acids, fulvic acids,
amino acids, seaweed extracts, and metabolites of beneficial microorganisms. Bio-stimulants
indirectly stimulate microbial activity in the soil, improving nutrient movement. Microbial
Inoculants: Special microbial preparations applied to seeds or soil before planting. They form
colonies of beneficial microorganisms in the plant's root system, optimizing nutrient exchange.
3. Minimal Tillage (Conservation Tillage)
This technology aims to preserve the natural structure of the soil, thereby supporting soil life.
No-Till Farming: A method of planting without any soil tillage. This helps preserve organic
matter in the topsoil layer, prevents the disruption of soil aggregates, and creates a stable living
environment for microorganisms. As a result, soil erosion is drastically reduced, water
infiltration is improved, and carbon sequestration in the soil contributes to combating climate
change. Minimum Tillage: Minimal soil disturbance (e.g., only in the planting row). This also
helps preserve soil structure but allows for some loosening of the soil. Both methods reduce fuel
consumption and labor costs.
4. Biological Benefits of Crop Rotation
Crop rotation is not just about pest and disease control, but also plays a significant role in
improving soil biological health. Reducing Soil Fatigue: Continuously planting the same crop
leads to a depletion of specific nutrients in the soil or an accumulation of metabolites harmful to
plants. Crop rotation disrupts this process. Diversity of Root Systems: The roots of different
crops penetrate to various depths in the soil. For example, deep-rooted crops (alfalfa) loosen the
lower soil layers, while shallow-rooted crops enrich the top layer. This generally improves the
soil and optimizes its water-air regime. Balance of Microbial Populations: Each crop type
releases specific root exudates, which promote the development of particular groups of
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microorganisms in the soil. Crop rotation increases the diversity of microorganisms in the soil,
ensuring a healthy and stable soil ecosystem.
5. Water Management and Phytoremediation Efficient Irrigation Methods: Drip irrigation and
micro-irrigation systems conserve water while maintaining optimal moisture levels in the soil.
This ensures a stable moisture regime, which is crucial for the activity of soil microorganisms. In
cases of water scarcity or excessive moisture, microbial activity decreases. Phytoremediation:
Some plants have the ability to absorb heavy metals or other pollutants from the soil into their
tissues or detoxify them. This method helps biologically purify the soil, which in turn increases
the overall biological activity of the soil.
Conclusion
Improving soil biological properties is a strategically important task for the future of agriculture.
This process requires a complex approach aimed at restoring and preserving soil health.
Continuous input of organic matter, rational use of bio-fertilizers and bio-stimulants, widespread
adoption of minimal tillage technologies, and crop rotation are methods that stimulate the
activity of soil microorganisms and increase its fertility. As a result, yields increase, reliance on
chemical substances decreases, the environment is protected, and sustainable soil resources are
ensured for future generations. By treating the soil as a living organism and caring for it
accordingly, we not only meet our current needs but also contribute to maintaining the ecological
balance of our planet.
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