Molecular Soil Biology 2024, Vol.15, No.5, 236-246 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/msb 240 4 Role of Rapeseed Straw in Enhancing Crop Productivity 4.1 Influence on subsequent crop yields The incorporation of rapeseed straw into the soil has been shown to significantly enhance subsequent crop yields by improving soil nutrient recycling. For instance, the application of phosphorus combined with straw return in a rape-rice rotation system increased rapeseed grain yields by up to 32.69% and rice yields by up to 17.31% compared to treatments without straw return (Zhang et al., 2023). According to our long-term observation results, after returning rapeseed straw to the field, the subsequent crop rice grows vigorously, has a clear appearance, and significantly increases yield (Figure 3). Similarly, long-term straw return in upland crops has been associated with increased soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks, which in turn supports higher crop productivity (Hagos et al., 2020). The addition of organic materials, including straw, has also been found to stabilize crop yields and improve soil nutrient content in winter rapeseed and maize rotations (Wei et al., 2022). The residual effects of rapeseed straw incorporation extend beyond immediate nutrient recycling, influencing crop performance in subsequent seasons. Annual straw incorporation in a rice-rapeseed rotation system significantly increased dry matter accumulation and nutrient uptake in rapeseed, indicating a positive residual effect on crop performance (Song et al., 2023). Additionally, the use of biochar derived from rapeseed straw has been shown to improve soil properties and enhance rapeseed yield, although these benefits may diminish over time (Jin et al., 2019). 4.2 Effects on crop growth parameters Rapeseed straw incorporation can stimulate root growth and enhance soil exploration, leading to improved nutrient uptake and crop growth. The application of biochar, a by-product of rapeseed straw, has been found to increase soil enzymatic activities and improve nitrogen assimilation, which in turn promotes root development and nutrient absorption (Khan et al., 2022). Furthermore, the use of organic materials, including straw, has been shown to enhance root biomass and soil nutrient availability, supporting better root growth and soil exploration (Wei et al., 2022). The incorporation of rapeseed straw into the soil has been demonstrated to enhance above-ground biomass production. For example, straw mulching and reduced slow-release fertilizer treatments significantly increased rapeseed biomass and yield under varying climate conditions (Feng et al., 2020). Additionally, the application of biochar and nitrogen supplements has been shown to improve leaf and stem biomass, as well as photosynthetic efficiency, leading to higher overall biomass production (Khan et al., 2020). 4.3 Long-term benefits on crop productivity Long-term incorporation of rapeseed straw contributes to sustained soil health and crop yield stability. Studies have shown that straw return combined with appropriate fertilization practices can increase SOC stocks and improve soil fertility, leading to stable and enhanced crop yields over extended periods (Hagos et al., 2020). The use of biochar derived from rapeseed straw has also been found to improve soil properties and support long-term crop productivity, although the effects may vary depending on soil type and initial SOC content (Jin et al., 2019). Figure 3 The growth and appearance of the subsequent crop rice
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