Spatial Variability of Micronutrient Status in Miyawaki Forest Development

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to quantitatively analyze the spatial variability in the micronutrient status of soil by conducting a comparative assessment of soil samples from Miyawaki forest and adjacent barren land. By focusing on key parameters such as soil pH, organic matter content and micronutrient levels, the changes brought by the Miyawaki method of afforestation is being studied. Study Design: Soil samples were collected from the first Miyawaki forest established in Kerala and a comparative study was done with neighbouring undisturbed plot to analyse the changes that was brought about by the establishment of Miyawaki forest in the area. Place and Duration of Study: The Miyawaki forests selected for study was located in Puliyarakonam in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, India. Methods: Representative soil samples were collected from the Miyawaki forest lands and neighbouring undisturbed plot from two depths and was subjected to various analyses. Results: The various soil chemical parameters were found to be enhanced by this method of afforestation indicating an improved soil fertility and soil health. Conclusion: The study highlights the significant benefits of Miyawaki forest restoration techniques on soil properties, which have far-reaching implications for both soil health and biodiversity. A higher OM (4.13%), available micronutrients (B-0.83 mg kg-1, Fe- 39.65 mg kg-1, Mn-30.53 mg kg-1, Zn-12.44 mg kg-1, Cu-8.90 mg kg-1) and pH (5.35) was observed in the Miyawaki forest in the surface soil. It was found that while the pH increased in the subsurface soil all the micronutrient concentration decreased with depth.