Soil Microbial Response to Cover Crop Termination Methods under Two Water Levels

Cover crops (CC) promote soil health, but the termination method can condition benefits for microorganisms. In a greenhouse experiment, we evaluated legacy effects of four common CC methods on mycorrhization, microbial abundance, structure, and activity, as well other properties, its interaction with water levels (well-watered deficit). Mowing residue incorporation (INC), glyphosate (GLY), roller crimper (ROL) + (RGL) were evaluated, together no CC, at two sampling dates subsequent maize. The level modulated response to methods, especially in methods. Legacy attributes notable evolved differently from maize, pre-emergence ~3 months later. At final sampling, INC showed best both levels, enhancing most attributes. ROL was second beneficial method, well-watered soil, promoting fungi nullifying positive effect bacteria. Regardless level, GLY RGL similar response. had negative total fungi, which separated ROL. Overall, time since Further research is needed investigate impacts under different environmental conditions, order better understand processes involved provide farm-level recommendations.