Soil physical characteristics and understory management in a walnut (Juglans regia L.) plantation in central Italy

Early and significant influences on soil physical properties are expected in temperate agroforests as a consequence of various soil and/or understory management practises. Soil physical characteristics were studied in an agroforestry trial of common walnut (Juglans regia L.) set up on a volcanic soil in central Italy, where clean cultivation, polyethylene mulching along tree rows and intercropping of walnut with alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) were tested. Soil total porosity, size distribution and morphology of pores, and available water were evaluated during the second and the fourth growing season of the plantation to determine the possible influence and duration of the treatments on soil physical properties. In the first sampling the total porosity was two to three times greater than in the second one and no significant differences were found between treatments. Seasonal variation in total porosity was observed, with a maximum in summer. All dimensional classes of pores > 50 μm were well represented, thus indicating an adequate soil structure. In the fourth growing season total porosity and pore size distribution were very similar in clean cultivation and mulching so that the mulching effect on the structural characteristics of this soil was equivalent to that of repeated rototilling in clean-cultivated plots. Moreover, mulching stimulated more biological activity, resulting in a higher proportion of rounded pores. Alfalfa roots created a more homogeneous environment to a depth of 35 cm, with a greater presence of elongated pores in the range 50--500 μm that could make movement of water easier. Most of the water retained was unavailable for plants, so that competition between walnuts and alfalfa took place and could be associated with the lower stem growth of intercropped walnuts.