Soil Tillage in Agroecosystems [Hardcover]

Introduction, Techniques of Soil Tillage. The Role of Soil Tillage for Soil Structure. Soil Microbial Activity and Diversity In Function Of Agricultural Practice. Soil Tillage for Sustainable Nutrient Management. Implications of Soil Tillage for Crop and Weed Seeds. Tillage Implications for Weeds in Crop Ecosystems. Influence of Cultivation Practices on Cereal Diseases. Tillage and Slugs in Arable Farming Systems. Interactions Between Tillage and Earthworms in Agroecosystems. Invertebrates in Soil Tillage Ecosystems. Soil Tillage and Epigeal Predatory Arthropods. The Synthesis.Building on our knowledge of soil ecology under natural, undisturbed conditions, Soil Tillage in Agroecosystems focuses on how cultivation affects soil and the soil environment. In particular, it highlights how methods of soil tillage can influence soil structure, soil chemical processes, soil borne pathogens, and pest species. Covering the aspects of soil tillage on different taxa, the book concludes with a synthesis of the role of soil tillage in securing a sustainable agricultural environment. It provides the scientific basis for choosing different tillage options to achieve the best possible sustainable base for long-lasting agricultural production. [R]eaders are provided with excellent descriptions of cultivation methods for soil preservation, significant research data, and substantial information on the effects of tillage on specific soils. & University libraries and special libraries focusing on agriculture, agroecosystems, soils, or agencies working with rural communities would benefit from adding this volume to their collection. The chapter outlines, combined with substantial current references and an excellent index, make the book organized and easy to use & .
- Journal of Agricultural and Food Information, Vol. 5, No. 1, 2003

[I]t is very broad in its coverage of topics with extensive literature reviews for most chapters. It would make a good referelC)