A case study on terracing and mulching in Namangan region hills located in Uzbekistan

Soil erosion and fertility decline pose a significant challenge to sustainable agriculture in the hilly regions of Namangan in Uzbekistan (Central Asia). This study investigates the long-term effects of terracing and mulching on soil fertility and stability from 2013 to 2023. Terracing involves converting steep slopes into stepped fields to reduce runoff, while mulching involves applying organic or inorganic materials to retain moisture and improve nutrient availability. Soil samples were taken annually from two depths (0–30 cm and 31–50 cm) and analysed for key fertility indicators. The results show a significant increase in the humus content in the 0–30 cm layer, which rose from 0.3 % in the untreated areas to 1.0 % with mulch and terracing. The phosphorus content increased significantly, reaching 83.7 mg/kg in the terraced and mulched soils, compared to 11.2 mg/kg in the untreated soils. The potassium content also improved: the treated soils contained 260 mg/kg compared to 94 mg/kg in the untreated plots. These results underline the effectiveness of terracing and mulching in improving soil health and stability through better nutrient retention and reduced erosion. The study underscores the potential of these sustainable practices to promote long-term agricultural productivity in erosion-prone regions.