THE EFFECT OF SOIL PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF AN ENTISOL ON THE GROWTH OF YOUNG POPLAR TREES (POPULUS SP .)

S. Stefanou, A. Z. Papazafeiriou

Abstract: The effect of soil physical properties of an Entisol on the growth of young poplar trees in a forest nursery was studied. In parts of the nursery where the growth of poplar trees was limited, the results showed lower permeability and higher field capacity, thus resulting in insufficient soil aeration. These conditions are attributed to the higher values of SAR and ESP found there, which caused clay dispersion and blocking of soil pores. In other parts of the nursery, the growth of poplar was normal. These unfavorable soil physical conditions along with the high pH values are considered responsible for the poplar growth retardation.

Keywords: air capacity; clay dispersion; ESP; field capacity; poplar; SAR

Date published: 2017-10-09