Effect of Important Agroforestry Tree Species on Soil Properties and Soil Nutrients

Abstract

The present study was conducted at Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni to study the "Effect of Important Agroforestry Tree Species on Soil Properties and Soil Nutrients” with the objective to determine the effect of different MPTs on soil properties including the quality and quantity of soil nutrient. The effect of MPTs on soil nutrient was studied in seven species viz., Grewia optiva, Morus alba, Celtisautralis, Aceroblongum, Meliaazedarach, Acacia catechu and Bauhinia variegata. The study was intended to explore the status of soil chemical characteristics under MPTs and compared these with control which is area devoid of vegetation. The study revealed higher nutrient contents at surface layer D1 (0–15 cm) which decrease with the increase of soil depth. The soil under the MPTs showed pronounced changes as compared to control. A comparison of soil chemical characteristics under MPTs and control revealed an improvement in soil Ec, Organic carbon and available nutrients. A general perusal of data revealed that Bauhinia variegata, Acer oblongum and Acacia catechu have more potential to ameliorate the soil chemical properties (soil pH, Organic carbon and available nutrients) as compared to other MPTs. The Bauhinia variegata and Acer oblongum are excelled amongst all studied tree species for improving available soil nutrients. The high and improved amount of available nutrients (N, P K) and organic carbon found at surface (0 – 15cm) layer which further decrease with the increase of soil depth.