ConnectFarms

This study assessed the effects of different fertilisation practices on soil microbial communities in a barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) cropping system, following the use of oat-vetch green manure (Avena sativa x Vicia sativa). Field experiments were conducted at the Agricultural University-Plovdiv, Bulgaria, using high-throughput 16S rRNA and metagenomic sequencing. Treatments included mineral fertiliser (MF), vermicompost (VC), a combined MF and VC treatment (MF.VC), biochar (BC), and a non-fertilised control. Two systems were compared: one with green manure and one conventional. Results showed that compost and green manure improved microbial diversity and functional potential. Genera such as Sphingomonas and Agromyces were more abundant in organic treatments. The integration of legume-based green manure and organic inputs supports resilient and functionally diverse soil microbiomes, promoting sustainable barley production.