Temporal variability of physical and chemical parameters in Andisols with Tectona grandis L. f plantations

Abstract

Soil composition varies across spatial and temporal scales, influenced by both natural factors and management practices. Forest plantations can have beneficial effects on the physical and chemical properties of soil. The objective of this study was to evaluate the temporal variability of Andisol soils under teak (Tectona grandis L. f.) plantations by comparing selected physical and chemical parameters measured at two points in time. The baseline data were obtained from a soil characterization conducted in 2012 on forest farms located in the municipality of El Viejo, Chinandega, Nicaragua, from which ten soil pits were selected. In 2023, a sample from the surface horizon of each pit was collected for laboratory analysis of physical and chemical properties, and the results were compared with the 2012 data. Statistical comparisons of means were conducted using paired sample t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests in the R statistical software. The analysis revealed that potassium, calcium, zinc, manganese, sulfur, bulk density, and silt content did not show statistically significant differences over time. In contrast, pH, organic matter, nitrogen, copper, and clay content increased significantly, while iron content and sand percentage decreased. It is concluded that temporal variability is mainly reflected in macronutrient levels and soil texture. Furthermore, teak plantations positively contribute to improving soil fertility, showing favorable trends in nutrient availability and texture over time.