Comparative Study of Mucuna bracteata DC. and Pueraria phaseoloides Cover Crop on the Physical Properties of Ultisol Soil

Abstract

Ultisol soil is known has poor physical properties like high bulk density, low porosity, acidic pH, and low organic matter and nitrogen. This study was conducted to compare the effects of two cover crops: Mucuna bracteata DC. and Pueraria phaseoloides. This study was conducted in a greenhouse setting. Result showed that both cover crops improved the physical properties of the soil, where the Pueraria phaseoloides showed a greater positive impact, notably reducing the bulk density, increasing the porosity, and enhancing the soil pH, organic matter, and nitrogen levels. Therefore, Pueraria phaseoloides is recommended as a more effective cover crop for improving Ultisol soil quality.