EFFECTS OF AGROFORESTRY PRACTICES ON SOIL HEALTH AND CROP YIELD IN SEMI-ARID REGIONS

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of agroforestry practices on soil health and crop yield in semi-arid regions, comparing agroforestry systems with monoculture plots. The research highlights significant improvements in biomass yield, grain yield, microbial activity, infiltration rates, and water retention, demonstrating the multifaceted benefits of agroforestry. Agroforestry plots showed a 16.7% increase in biomass yield and a 17.6% increase in grain yield compared to monoculture systems. Additionally, microbial activity was enhanced by 41.2%, reflecting a healthier soil ecosystem. Water-related parameters also improved, with agroforestry systems exhibiting a 23.1% higher infiltration rate and a 24.5% greater water retention capacity. The findings emphasize the role of agroforestry in enhancing soil fertility, conserving water, and improving overall agricultural productivity. These results underscore the potential of agroforestry as a sustainable land management practice, particularly in water-scarce regions. The study advocates for the widespread adoption of agroforestry systems as a viable solution to address the environmental and agricultural challenges faced by semi-arid regions, contributing to the long-term sustainability and resilience of farming systems in these areas.