Meta-analysis reveals the impact of straw return on soil organic carbon and maize yield in Northeast China, suggesting tailored practices based on local conditions.
Key Points
This analysis aims to evaluate how straw return influences soil organic carbon stocks and maize yield in Northeast China's croplands.
Conducted a meta-analysis of straw return effects on SOC stocks and maize yield in Northeast China.
Analyzed moderating roles of climatic conditions, soil properties, and fertilization management.
Assessed optimal straw return practices over a duration of 5–10 years.
Straw return increased topsoil SOC stocks by 10.1–18.1%.
Maize yield responses were higher at 5–10 °C temperatures and 600–700 mm precipitation.
Fertilization management, especially N application of 200–250 kg ha−1, showed greater maize yield benefits.