Abstract
To meet the needs of sustainable agricultural development, in-depth research on the effects of different rotation systems and fertilization practices on soil health is of great significance. This study focused on paddy fields in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River and systematically compared the effects of two rotation systems—rapeseed-rice and wheat-rice—under different fertilization treatments (no fertilization, chemical fertilization alone, and combined application of chemical fertilizers and straw return) on soil nutrients, physical properties, and aggregate characteristics. The results showed that the rapeseed-rice rotation significantly increased soil organic matter and available phosphorus content and optimized total porosity and capillary porosity, outperforming the wheat-rice rotation in improving soil structure. The combined application of straw return and chemical fertilizers exhibited a notable synergistic effect, significantly enhancing soil nutrient levels and aggregate stability. This effect was particularly pronounced under the “chemical fertilizers and straw return” treatment, where the relevant indicators reached optimal levels. Furthermore, the rapeseed-rice rotation notably increased the proportion of macro aggregates, improved aggregate stability, and further enhanced the soil’s water retention and nutrient supply capacity. The study indicates that rational selection of rotation systems and fertilization practices can effectively improve soil quality, providing scientific evidence for agricultural production and sustainable development in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River. The findings of this study offer valuable insights for optimizing agricultural management strategies, improving soil health, and promoting the sustainable development of regional agriculture.
