Science–based maize stover removal can be sustainable

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) stover can be harvested for multiple uses or left in the field to sustain soil organic carbon (SOC), cycle essential plant nutrients, and protect soil health. This 13-yr field study quantified effects of no (0 Mg ha –1 yr –1 ), low (1.0–1.4 Mg ha –1 yr –1 ), moderate (3.5–4.0 Mg ha –1 yr –1 ), or high rates (4.7–5.4 Mg ha –1 yr –1 ) of stover harvest from either continuous maize or maize–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] rotation on grain yield, plant nutrient concentrations, and multiple soil properties at two sites in Iowa. Stover harvest increased plant macro- and micro-nutrient removal, but did not affect average grain yields of either crops. Soil inorganic carbon (IC), SOC, bulk density, pH, and cation exchange capacity (CEC) showed no significant differences due to stover harvest. Plant tissue and soil-test nutrient concentration effects were also minor and site-specific. Stover harvest significantly (p < .05) decreased exchangeable K and Ca concentrations by 8.3–23.8% and 0.3–22.5% but overall soil health indicator effects were minimal. Overall, based on crop yields, plant nutrient and soil-test concentrations, soil health indicators, and carbon sequestration estimates, maize stover harvest can be sustainable provided: (a) grain yields consistently exceed 11 Mg ha –1 , (b) stover removal does not exceed 40% of the aboveground biomass (i.e., 3.5–4.0 Mg ha –1 yr –1 ), and (c) plant nutrients (especially K) are closely monitored.