Effect of stratified soil mixed with sand on photosynthesis and transpiration of alfalfa
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: 【Objective】Stratifying soil with sand is an engineering technique commonly used to improve the drainage and aeration of fine-textured soils. This study investigates its effects on the growth, transpiration, and photosynthesis of alfalfa.【Method】A field experiment was conducted to compare intact soil (FUS) and soil treated with a sand-stratification technique (ALS). In each treatment, physiological traits, photosynthetic traits, transpiration, and water consumption of alfalfa were measured. The hydrothermal balance of each soil type was analyzed using the soil-heat-water model.【Result】Under identical conditions, ALS significantly influenced the physiological and ecological traits of alfalfa. Specifically, compared to FUS, ALS increased average plant height by 8.5%, stem diameter by 10.4%, stem-to-leaf ratio by 18.2%, and dry mass by 7.1%. Under natural conditions, ALS increased the daily average net photosynthetic rate by 8.69% to 109.39%, with maximum increases ranging from 9.27% to 64.23%. Moreover, ALS significantly enhanced transpiration and stomatal conductance compared to FUS. The total evapotranspiration of alfalfa was 576.85 mm under FUS and 381.45 mm under ALS. Additionally, ALS reduced soil-surface evaporation by 51.22% during the peak water-demand period of the growing season.【Conclusion】Stratifying fine-textured soil with sand improved water infiltration, reduced soil surface evaporation, and enhanced the water use efficiency of alfalfa, thereby increasing its yield.
Authors: ZHANG Yongxing, YUAN Riping, GAN Yongde, ZHEGN Liping, WANG Shangtao, LIU Huan, JIA Yangwen, NIU Cunwen
Language: English
Subfield: Soil Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDGs: Life on land, Zero hunger
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W6941992211
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