Effects of Rainfall and Plant Characteristics on the Spatiotemporal Variation of Soil Moisture in a Black Locust Plantation (Robinia pseudoacacia) on the Chinese Loess Plateau

Soil moisture is a key factor controlling vegetation construction and ecological restoration in arid semiarid areas. Understanding its spatiotemporal patterns influencing factors essential for effective water management. In this study, we analyzed the characteristics of black locust plants using field investigations statistical analyses determined effects rainfall plant on soil content (SMC) typical watershed Loess Plateau, China. The results show that SMC increases with increasing distance from tree trunk horizontal direction. vertical profile includes layers characterized by rapid decrease, decreased fluctuation, slow increase. Temporal changes exhibit higher variabilities surface layer than deeper layers. Rainfall notably affect moisture. influence amount stronger duration intensity. diameter at breast height, canopy width positively affects moisture, whereas leaf area index openness negatively it. study provide insights into change mechanisms theoretical references sustainable use management