Comparing Soil Properties among Cropping Systems in Graves County, Kentucky.

Cropping systems optimize land use and enhance productivity, promoting biodiversity and sustainability. They improve soil health, reduce pest pressures, and support resilient food production, crucial for food security and environmental health. This study investigates the influence of different cropping systems on soil health indicators by analyzing soil porosity, bulk density, water holding capacity, and soil organic matter (SOM) in maize, soybean, tobacco, and pasture lands in Graves County, Kentucky. Soil samples were collected using the core sampling method at a depth of 6 cm, with a total of 24 samples analyzed across six fields: Maize, Pasture, Soybean-1, Soybean-2, Soybean-3, and Tobacco. Results reveal that Soybean-2 exhibited the most favorable soil conditions, characterized by the highest total porosity (56.05%), lowest bulk density (1.08 g/cm³), and highest water holding capacity (52.85%), with minimal variability, thereby promoting root and microbial activity. Conversely, Soybean-3 demonstrated the lowest porosity (50.85%), highest bulk density (1.2 g/cm³), and lowest water retention (43.35%), indicative of compaction and less optimal soil conditions. Notably, tobacco fields had the highest SOM (4.55%). The previous crop was soybean. This study indicates the significant impact of cropping systems on soil properties, with implications for agricultural practices and soil management strategies aimed at enhancing soil health and sustainability in the region. Keywords: Bulk density, Cropping system, Organic matter, Porosity, Water retention,