Effects of weeding and fertilization on soil biology and biochemical processes and tree growth in a mixed stand of Dalbergia odorifera and Santalum album

Abstract In southern China, the eucalyptus plantation industry has been severely restricted by government policy over concerns on negative environmental impacts. its place, large-scale plantations of high-value tropical tree species such as nitrogen-fixing Dalbergia odorifera and hemiparasite Santalum album have widely cultivated including in mixed-species plantations. However, despite their poor growth, little information is available suitable silvicultural practices these Therefore, we subjected an 8-year-old mixed stand D. S. to weeding, fertilization, weeding + or no (CK) treatments measured soil microbial biomass, respiration, nutrients, nitrogen mineralization leaching growth litter production. Weeding fertilization decreased biomass but increased inhibited mineralization, had not effect nitrogen, improved nutrient status soil. All . plantation, production content, because number haustoria underground plant roots. conclusion, recommended; however, weeding-related are inappropriate for These conclusions important implications managing other parasite