Mineralization of soil organic matter plays a key role in supplying nutrient elements essential to plant growth. Soil cultivation and crop residue affect C mineralization and nutrient availability in wetland ecosystems. This study evaluated the combined impacts of soil cultivation and crop residue on C and N mineralization in a calcareous wetland soil (Luvic Calcisol) in Central Iran. Soil samples were collected from 0 to 15 cm depth in cultivated and uncultivated plots and analyzed for selected soil attributes. Wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) and alfalfa ( Medicago sativa L.) residues were collected and analyzed for the chemical composition. Nitrogen and C mineralization rates were studied using laboratory incubations for 60 days. Results show that in this calcareous wetland soil, cultivation decreased soil total organic carbon and total N contents, while total organic carbon/total N ratio, bulk density, pH, and extractable P and available K levels remain unaffected. Cultivation resulted in a significant increase in soil C and N mineralization. Wheat residue had a significantly lower quality than alfalfa residue, and therefore decomposed more slowly. Results also indicate that plant residue has a significant impact on decomposition rate and nutrient cycling. Soil cultivation and residue quality had a significant influence on C and N cycling and nutrient contents. The combined effects of soil cultivation and crop residue play a significant role in changing the nutrient balance and availability in calcareous wetland soils with conventional agricultural practices. In summary, significant differences occurred in soil attributes and residue decomposition affecting C and nutrient dynamics, and therefore crop productivity.