Transformation of physics-chemical properties of typical agrochornozem under long-term agricultural use in the Steppe Dnipro region

Abstract

The aim of the study The aim of the study was to examine the dynamics of physico-chemical characteristics of typical agro-chernozem under long-term use in agroeco-systems of the Steppe Dnipro region (based on a long-term field experiment). Methods. The object of the study was a typical medium-humus agro-chernozem with predominantly heavy loam and light clay texture, located within the Slobozhanske southern territorial community of Dnipropetrovsk region (research field of the Educational and Scientific Center of Dnipro State Agrarian and Economic University, Dnipro district, see Figures 1–2). The soil has been under long-term agricultural pressure.Results. The study reveals quantitative changes in the physico-chemical properties of typical agro-chernozem, which has been intensively cultivated for approximately 20 years under agricultural conditions in the Steppe Dnipro region, at the designated experimental site. The research aimed to determine the nature and direction of transformation in key soil fertility indicators under prolonged anthropogenic load. For this purpose, a comparative analysis of agrochemical data from 2003 and 2024 was carried out, along with an assessment of the physico-chemical state of virgin chernozem, which served as a control reference.Findings. The obtained results enabled the identification of trends in changes in humus content, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium availability, acid-base balance, and cation exchange capacity of the soil. A significant decrease in humus content was recorded – from 4.0% in 2003 to 3.15–3.31% in 2024 – indicating active processes of humus depletion caused by mineralization of organic matter without adequate replenishment. Despite an increase in easily hydrolyzable nitrogen, the levels of ammonium and nitrate nitrogen remained low, which may suggest a disturbance in microbial activity.