Effects of super absorbent polymers on soil microbial properties and Chinese cabbage (Brassica chinensis) growth

Abstract

Purpose: New water retention materials, super absorbent polymers (SAPs), have shown the potential to improve some soil physicochemical properties and promote growth of some crop species in arid and semi-arid areas. However, the impacts of SAPs on soil microbial properties are unclear. This study was conducted to clarify the effects of two SAPs on soil microbial properties and Chinese cabbage (Brassica chinensis) growth under different water conditions in the greenhouse. Materials and methods: Experimental conditions included different irrigation conditions and different quantities of SAPs. Chinese cabbage was harvested after 1-month growth in the greenhouse. Meanwhile, soil samples were coll..