PLANTING SYSTEM AND ITS EFFECT ON PENETRATION RESISTANCE, SOIL DENSITY, AND SOYBEAN DEVELOPMENT IN THE SOUTHWEST OF MATO GROSSO, BRAZIL

In recent years, many producers have modified their production systems to meet the growing demand for food. However, these practices may lead to changes in the physical properties of the soil and compromise plant development. In order to evaluate the influence of production systems on soil physical properties and soybean crop yield, a study was conducted at Pitanga farm in the municipality of Tangará da Serra, Mato Grosso, Brazil. Soil physical characteristics were assessed at different depths, including penetration resistance, bulk density, and porosity, in two areas: one under conventional tillage and the other under no-tillage. Agronomic characteristics of the soybean crop were also evaluated, including plant height, height of first pod insertion, number of nodes, and yield. Significant results were observed for penetration resistance, bulk density, and plant height. The no-tillage area showed a higher level of soil compaction however, the compaction level found did not affect root system growth or soybean yield.