Summary
This analysis of over 100 years of continuous field experiments at Rothamsted and Woburn demonstrates that soil organic matter substantially influences modern arable crop yields, contrary to earlier findings. The effect operates through multiple pathways: enhanced water-holding capacity, improved nitrogen availability independent of fertiliser dressing, and improved soil physical properties. Soils with higher organic matter also show greater responsiveness to applied nitrogen fertiliser, suggesting interactive benefits for crop productivity.
Regional applicability
This study was conducted at two classical long-term experiment sites in the United Kingdom (Rothamsted, Hertfordshire and Woburn, Bedfordshire) and directly reflects UK arable farming conditions across contrasting soil types. The findings are immediately applicable to UK policy and practice in arable crop management and soil stewardship.
Key measures
Soil organic carbon content over time; arable crop yields; soil texture (sandy loam and silty clay loam); water-holding capacity; response to fertilizer nitrogen applications
Outcomes reported
The study analysed periodic soil samples from long-term field experiments to measure changes in organic carbon content and its effects on crop yields across different soil types. It assessed how soil organic matter influences crop yield potential, water-holding capacity, nitrogen availability, and soil physical properties.
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