Soil Chemical Properties and Maize (Zea mays L.) Yield influenced by Lime and Fern (Pteris vittata)

This study aimed to investigate the influence of liming and fern on reducing the absorption of arsenic (As) by maize and As content in the soil. The single-factor experiment was designed in a completely random block (4 treatments and 4 replicates). Treatments were followed: Treatment 1 (NT1) liming (3tons CaO.ha-1); NT2: Plant ferns alternately with maize (without liming); NT3: Plant ferns alternately with maize and liming (3 tons CaO.ha-1); NT4: Control (no liming or ferns). The results showed that the applications of liming and ferns have positive influences on the soil pH, EC, OM, yield, and yield components of the maize tested in this study. The yield difference between the application of liming and intercropped ferns was increased from 5.4 to 22.3 %. Moreover, the arsenic contents in soil, stems, and seeds were 25.7, 32.0 and 50 % lower than that of the control, respectively. soil to roots and stems, which significantly caused reduction of a large amount of As content in soils. Therefore, to reduce the production cost, and enhance soil and maize quality, application of lime (3 ton.ha-1) and intercropped ferns is recommended. HIGHLIGHTS Increasing pH, EC and organic matter by the lime application combined with ferns Decreasing the soil arsenic concentration by intercroping maizes and ferns The lime application combined with ferns raising the yield components and yield of maize The high As accumulation of stems and shoots of ferns intercroping maizes and ferns The lowest As accumulation of stems and seeds of maizes applying the lime combined with ferns