Impacts of agroforestry practices on the physico-chemical, water and soil fertility properties in semi-arid environments: The case of Bordjias Plain (Mesra, North-West Algeria)

Abstract

Abstract All problems related to conventional agriculture are a reference to the search for sustainable solutions. In this context, a comparative study between three agroforestry practices (AFP): Citrus sinensis, Olea europaea, and Punica granatum, each associated with Vicia faba (Fabaceae), was conducted on Bordjias Plain. In order to study the impacts of each association on the physico-chemical properties and water and soil fertility, the soil samples were taken from two profiles (P1 under the tree and P2 between trees), through three horizons (Sh, Mh and Lh), before and after the establishment of culture. The results of the analyses show that moisture variability appears to be influenced by the type of soil and the woody species. By increasing the organic matter content, these associations improve the structural stability of the soil, accelerating the process of dissolution of calcium carbonate, changing the pH, EC, P2O5, CEC, and ion exchange in soil. The statistical approach (ANOVA) allowed us to bring out the positive impact of agroforestry practices on soil fertility.