Studying the effect of Pinus taeda and Populus sp. plantation on some forest soils properties (Case study: Fidareh of Lahidjan)

Document Type : Research Paper

Abstract

This research was carried out to study the effects of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) and Populus sp. plantation on some forest soil properties in Lahidjan region. The experimental design was as completely Randomized Block with three treatments (Land covers) and five replicates. For each land cover, five 500 m2 sample plots were established and five trees were randomly selected within the plots. Soil samples were taken from depth 0-20 cm around each tree. Some soil properties such as pH, organic carbon, texture, microbial respiration were analyzed. The results showed that bulk density of soils differed significantly among Pinus taeda and other trees. Poplar plantation increased significantly pH, Ca+Mg, available P and K in contrast to other tree species. Microbial respiration increased significantly under soils of native forests. It is concluded that poplar plantation could increase the soil fertility index. 

Keywords