Integrating organic fertilizers in maize-mung bean intercropping: implications for soil carbon dynamics and greenhouse gas reduction

Summary

This 2024 field study investigates how combining maize–mung bean intercropping with organic fertiliser application affects soil carbon dynamics and greenhouse gas emissions. The research suggests that integrated management—pairing intercropping with targeted organic amendments—may enhance nutrient cycling whilst supporting soil carbon storage and reducing net emissions. The findings contribute evidence on farm-level management strategies as pathways to advance soil health and climate resilience, though specific effect magnitudes and geographic transferability require consultation of the full paper.

UK applicability

The findings on intercropping and organic amendment effects may be partially applicable to UK arable systems, particularly in southern regions with suitable growing seasons for warm-season pulses. However, climate differences (temperature, rainfall patterns) and existing UK soil carbon status may limit direct transferability; UK-specific validation would be warranted before widespread adoption recommendations.

Key measures

Soil carbon stocks, greenhouse gas flux measurements (CO₂, CH₄, N₂O), soil nutrient content, intercrop yield, nutrient cycling rates

Outcomes reported

The study measured soil carbon dynamics, greenhouse gas emissions (primarily CO₂, CH₄, and N₂O), and nutrient cycling parameters under maize–mung bean intercropping with and without organic fertiliser application. It assessed how integrated management practices influence soil carbon storage and emission pathways at the field scale.

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