Evaluating the aggregate properties of podzolized chernozem in agricultural and abandoned land

Abstract

EN: Prolonged intensive use of Chernozems in the Central Forest-Steppe of Ukraine leads to the degradation of agroecosystems, particularly affecting Chernozems. This results in the depletion of humus content and the overall deterioration of agrophysical properties of these valuable zonal soils. This degradation process leads to the destruction of soil structure, compaction, and the development of erosion processes. A necessary measure for the rehabilitation of degraded Chernozems is the restoration of their structural-aggregate state. Soil structure influences the global carbon cycle, fertility, environmental conditions, and the humus regime in arable Chernozems. Soil structure refers to the form and size of structural units and water-stable aggregates that soil breaks down into under agrogenic loads, characterized by the shape and degree of aggregation. One of the most important indicators of structure is its water stability – the ability to withstand disintegration when moistened.