ABSTRACT
Accumulation of nutrients and surface compaction have been reported after a long time under a no-tillage system. The aim of this study was to evaluate soil chemical properties, bulk density, and crop yield following a single mechanical intervention associated with liming in a clayey Oxisol under a NT system for 17 consecutive years in Pato Branco, southwestern Paraná, Brazil. A randomized block experimental design was used in a split-plot arrangement, with plowing and harrowing of the soil in the plots (with and without soil turnover through plowing to 0.00-0.20 m and harrowing), and liming in the subplots (with and without liming to raise the level of base saturation to 70 %). Soil bulk density and yield of maize (6th month), black oat biomass (12thmonth), and soybean (20th month), as well as soil chemical properties (6th month), were evaluated. Occasional soil tillage through plowing and harrowing in a no-tillage system consolidated had a brief effect of reducing soil bulk density for six months. Incorporation of lime showed no advantages over application of lime on the soil surface. There were no yield increases in the crops following liming and soil tillage. The yields of corn, oat, and soybean did not depend on plowing and lime incorporation in this agricultural area.
soil compaction; soil bulk density; soil acidity; soil management
