How Diversified Cropping Systems Restore Soil Function in Sandy Soils?

Coarse-textured soils are naturally fragile because they have low organic matter retention and limited capacity to form stable aggregates. Under intensive agriculture, these soils can become compacted, reducing water storage, aeration, and root growth.

This study evaluated how different conservation agriculture practices influenced soil physical quality in sandy soils after seven years of management. The researchers compared diversified systems, simplified agricultural systems, business-as-usual management, and native vegetation across three soil depths.

The strongest benefits appeared below the soil surface. Business-as-usual management led to greater compaction, while the most diversified crop-livestock system improved porosity, water storage, and the least limiting water range. These changes suggest better conditions for root growth, aeration, and soil resilience in sandy soils.

Why It Matters
Sandy soils are often considered difficult to improve because they store little organic matter and have weak structure. This study shows that long-term diversified management can still restore important soil physical functions, especially in the subsurface. For producers, this means that cover crops, managed grazing, and nutrient management can work together to improve soil resilience, water availability, and productivity in coarse-textured agroecosystems.

Take-Home Message
Diversified and integrated crop-livestock systems can improve the physical quality of sandy soils, but the strongest benefits may occur below the surface where roots, water movement, and compaction interact.

Reference: Cagna, C. P., Ologunde, O. H., Trumpp, K. R., Dubeux, J. C. B., Tormena, C. A., & Nunes, M. R. (2026). Diversified cropping systems improve the physical quality of coarse-textured soils. Soil and Tillage Research, 262, 107229. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.still.2026.107229