Green Manure: a Sustainable Solution for Enhancing Fertility and Reducing Acidity in Albic Luvisols of Northwestern Romania

In recent years, the shift towards sustainable agriculture has gained momentum. With climate change posing new challenges, adopting innovative farming strategies is essential. One effective approach is replacing excessive nitrogen fertilizers with green manures, which not only serve as natural fertilizers but also enhance soil health, boost organic carbon levels, support beneficial microbiomes, improve water retention, and offer numerous other benefits to the soil. This study explores the effects of green and chemical fertilizers on the acidic albic luvisols of northwestern Romania, focusing on enhancing soil fertility, reducing acidity, and improving agricultural productivity. Field experiments involving wheat, sunflower, and maize were conducted to evaluate the combined impact of green manure crops (rapeseed, sunflower, soybean, pea, and triticale) and chemical fertilizers. Results indicated a significant improvement in soil properties, including increased organic carbon, nitrogen, and humus levels. Wheat yielded an 18% productivity increase, sunflower by 15%, and maize by 31% under combined fertilization compared to control. The findings affirm the potential of integrating green and chemical fertilizers as a sustainable strategy for optimizing soil health and boosting crop yields in challenging soil conditions.