Chiseling is one of the mechanical practices that can be used in no-tillage (NT) soils in order to reduce soil bulk density, resistance to root penetration, and to increase water permeability. The effect of these changes on plant growth and consequently on grain yield depends on climatic conditions. In soils with ideal moisture conditions, the physical limitations tend to be less noticeable. This study aimed to analyze the changes in the physical and hydric properties of a chiseled Oxisol under NT system. The following soil parameters were assessed: bulk density, maximum dry density and optimum moisture content, relative density, water infiltration, and hydraulic conductivity of saturated (K0) and unsaturated soils (Kè) through field tensiometry. The water infiltration and Ko in the chiseled soils were higher than in those of NT soils. The chiseling effects lasted for over one year, and this practice may be recommended for soil and water conservation. Bulk density did not differ significantly between the management systems. It was concluded that the effects of chiseling on NT soils can last for two years and can improve conditions for soil and water conservation.
soil compaction; soil and water conservation; no-tillage
