Impact of Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss ) Plantation Under Agroforestry System on Soil Properties in Semi-arid Region of India

Abstract

Studies on impact of neem plantation on soil properties was initiated in 4-and 8-year-old neem plantations at two different sites. An increase in organic carbon, available N, P and K was 0.11%, 38.90 kg ha^-1 , 5.14 kg ha^-1 and 62.55 kg ha^-1 , respectively under 4-year-old neem plantation over control (without tree) after 3 years and increase was 0.18 %, 35.75 kg ha^-1, 3.96 kg ha^-1 and 67.55 kg ha^-1 for organic carbon, available N, P and K, respectively under 8- year-old plantation. The increment in organic carbon and available N, P and K was lower in 15-30 cm soil depth compared to 0-15 cm. The soil pH was slightly lower in both the plantations in compare to control.