Summary
This comparative field study assessed soil quality across eighteen vegetable fields in southern Hanoi under three management systems: organic farming, conventional farming, and abandoned land. Organic farming soils exhibited the highest quality, with superior organic matter content (1.34% OC), optimal bulk density (1.08 g/cm³), and balanced nutrient profiles. Conventional farming soils contained higher absolute nutrient concentrations but lower organic matter, whilst abandoned fields showed the poorest nutrient status. The findings suggest organic vegetable production offers both food safety and soil quality benefits.
Regional applicability
This study was conducted in Vietnam and reflects tropical monsoon soil and vegetable production conditions specific to the Red River Delta region. Findings on organic system benefits for soil organic matter and microbial health may have some applicability to United Kingdom horticulture, particularly regarding long-term soil quality under intensive vegetable production, though UK temperate conditions, regulatory frameworks, and conventional farming practices differ substantially. Direct transfer of organic management recommendations would require consideration of UK climate, crop calendars, and market conditions.
Key measures
Bulk density (BD), particle density (PD), organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen (N), available phosphorus (P2O5), available potassium (K2O), cation exchange capacity (CEC), soil texture (loamy, sandy loam), and concentrations of macro- and micronutrients
Outcomes reported
The study compared physical, chemical, and nutrient parameters of soils under organic farming, conventional farming, and abandoned land-use systems in vegetable-producing areas of southern Hanoi. Organic farming soils demonstrated superior physicochemical properties, organic matter content, and macro- and micronutrient status compared to conventional and abandoned systems.
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