Evaluation of soil and water conservation capacities for plantations on the Simian Mountains of China

Abstract

Eighteen indices were selected to evaluate soil and water conservation capacities of four different mixtures of plantations using the Ideal Point Method. Results indicate that a broadleaf plantation of robur (Lithocarpus glabra) and Chinese guger tree (Schima superba) had the best conservation capacity, a mixed broadleaf plantation of sweetgum (Liquidambar formosana), Chinese gugertree and camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora) was ranked second. A mixed broadleaf–conifer plantation of Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata), Masson pine (Pinus massoniana) and Chinese gugertree ranked third with a mixed coniferous plantation (Chinese fir and Masson pine) fourth. Under similar climates and topographical conditions, broadleaf plantations have better soil and water conservation capacities than conifer plantations. Sensitivity analysis showed that litter amounts and soil properties are the most important indicators of soil and water conservation capacities of plantations. Suitable measures such as deep tillage should be used to improve soil aggregation in different plantations.