M. N. Jha , R. K. Rathore , P. Pande

Abstract

Soils and their behaviour with respect to natural regeneration of fir and spruce in Narkanda (Himachal Pradesh) were studied. Soil formation is predominantly governed by podzolization process but the soli propi1e in poorly regenerated area shows almost negligible eluviation of clay and organic matter due to fairly well developed 'O' horizon. The soils are distinctly acidic, unsaturated and possess low cation exchange capacity. It is likely that the hydrophobic substance released from the decomposition of litter of fir and spruce severely restricted the wetting of the soil Therefore, the insufficient moisture content in the soil due to this thick layer of bumus on tbe surface affected the process of natural regeneration of fir and spruce in Narkanda.

Full Text

     

M. N. Jha , R. K. Rathore

Abstract

Pattern of moisture distribution was compared in a soil under Eucalyptus and Pine stands during summer of 1979. The stands retained a higher amount of soil moisture in their middle layers as compared to upper and lower layers of the 1.8 meter soil profile. The moisture content in the soil decreased with time and more than 4% decrease was observed in the lower depth range (145-185 cm) of Eucalyptus. The Eucalyptus meets its water demand from deeper soil depths whereas Pine thrives on shallower depths. The study revealed that the stands did not experience critical soil moisture stress during the period of study under the New Forest conditions. The study is being extended 10 cover the whole year.

Full Text

     

M. N. Jha , R. K. Rathore

Abstract

The soil moisture characteristics of the three soils of different textural classes have been determined. The moisture contents at field capacity and the wilting point increased with increase in fineness of texture. The available moisture capacity of these soils were 4.29% in sandy loam, 18.97% in silty loam and 14.34% in clay. The silty loam soil maintained a good air-water balance. Favourable for good plant growth than observed under clay. Higher aeration pores induced better infiltration in sandy loam though found to be droughty.

Full Text