Evaluating tree growth factors into species-specific functional soil maps for improved agroforestry system efficiency

Abstract Agroforestry systems play an important role in sustainable agroecosystems. However, accurately and adequately quantifying the relationships between environmental factors tree growth these are still lacking. Objectives of this study were to quantify affecting four species develop functional soil maps (FSM) for each agroforestry site. The diameter at breast height, absolute rate (AGR), neighborhood competition index 259 trees from (northern red oak [ Quercus rubra ], pecan Carya illinoinensis cottonwood Populus deltoides sycamore Platanus occidentalis ]) determined. A total 51 topsoil samples collected analyzed, 12 terrain attributes derived digital elevation model. AGR, soil, topography, size analyzed using Spearman correlation. Based on correlation analysis, FSM generated k-means cluster method by overlaying correlated attribute maps. Results showed driving relative properties. spatial variations AGR among units statistically compared within areas with larger identified FSM. This demonstrated that could delineate different oak, cottonwood, trees. did not vary units. may allow land managers more precisely establish manage systems.