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Altitudinal Wise Assessment of Soil Physio-chemical Properties of Different Agroforestry Systems in Garhwal Himalaya, India

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Ng Manitombi Devi — PhD scholar Department of Forestry, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University Srinagar, Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand 246174
Himshikha Gusain — Assistant professor Department of Forestry, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University Srinagar, Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand 246174
Bhagyashree Debbarma — PhD scholar Department of Forestry, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University Srinagar, Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand 246174
Rekha Rana — PhD scholar Department of Forestry, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University Srinagar, Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand 246174
Published 22 Oct 2026 Vol. 27 No. 2 (2025), pp. 17-26 ● Open access
❝ How to cite 🔗 https://doi.org/10.48165/ija.2025.27.02.03
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Abstract

Agroforestry systems significantly influence soil properties, which are important indicators of soil health. The study was carried out to assess soil properties viz., moisture content, water-holding capacity, soil texture, bulk density, and chemical properties like pH, SOC, SCS and SOM in three prominent agroforestry systems including agrihorticulture (scattered fruit crops), agrisilviculture (tree on bunds), and agrisilvihorticulture (homegarden) of Western Himalayas, Uttarakhand. Soil samples were collected from three elevations (800- 1300m, 1300-1800m, and above 1800m) under agroforestry systems at two depths (0-15cm, 15- 30cm). The results show that altitude significantly influences soil texture, with sand content increasing and clay content decreasing with elevation. Higher altitudes exhibited greater soil moisture and organic matter retention. The Agri-silvi-horticulture system, particularly at higher altitudes, demonstrated superior water-holding capacity, lower bulk density, and higher SOC and SOM, making it the most effective for improving soil quality. Conversely, the Agri- horticulture system at lower elevations had higher bulk density and lower organic carbon content. Soil organic carbon stock (SCS) declined with depth, with the highest values observed in the topsoil. This study emphasizes the potential benefits in enhancing soil fertility, moisture retention, and carbon sequestration, emphasizing the importance of selecting appropriate systems for adapting to climate change and promoting sustainable land management in the Himalayan region. The findings provide valuable insights for improving agroforestry practices in the region to promote soil health and agricultural productivity.

KeywordsAgroforestrySoilPhysical chemical propertiesCarbon sequestrationClimate changeSustainable management
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