Sustainable soil revival with successional agroforestry
NGONG, FLORENTINE CHE; (2024)
2024
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024061423298
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024061423298
Tiivistelmä
Successional agroforestry an environmental conscious approach to land restoration offers a promising solution to address soil degradation and biodiversity loss in degraded agricultural landscapes. This degree thesis aimed to investigate the efficacy of the Lill-Nägel’s model of successional agroforestry in remediating degraded agricultural soil while promoting biodiversity. The implementation of this model involved the deliberate integration of trees, shrubs, and perennial vegetation into agricultural landscapes, fostering biodiversity, improving soil health, and promoting resilience. The primary objectives included promoting biodiversity, generating income through economic crops, and sequestering carbon to mitigate climate change effects.
The study employed various methods, including biodiversity observation, soil analysis, plant sap analysis, horse manure application, introduction of a drip irrigation system, and application of foliar spray. These methods were applied systematically to monitor and enhance soil health and biodiversity within the pilot plot. Results from the analysis revealed a gradual improvement in soil organic matter (SOM), trace elements, and general biodiversity of plants within the pilot plot. Increased microbial activity and nutrient availability in the soil were observed, leading to enhanced productivity while minimizing input costs, thereby making the agricultural system more economically viable and sustainable.
Above all, the implementation of the Lill-Nägel’s model of successional agroforestry demonstrated significant potential in restoring degraded agricultural soil, promoting biodiversity, and fostering sustainable agricultural practices. The findings of this study contribute to the growing body of knowledge on agroforestry systems and their role in addressing soil degradation, biodiversity loss, and climate change mitigation. This research underscores the importance of adopting holistic approaches to land restoration and highlights the potential of successional agroforestry as a viable solution for sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.
The study employed various methods, including biodiversity observation, soil analysis, plant sap analysis, horse manure application, introduction of a drip irrigation system, and application of foliar spray. These methods were applied systematically to monitor and enhance soil health and biodiversity within the pilot plot. Results from the analysis revealed a gradual improvement in soil organic matter (SOM), trace elements, and general biodiversity of plants within the pilot plot. Increased microbial activity and nutrient availability in the soil were observed, leading to enhanced productivity while minimizing input costs, thereby making the agricultural system more economically viable and sustainable.
Above all, the implementation of the Lill-Nägel’s model of successional agroforestry demonstrated significant potential in restoring degraded agricultural soil, promoting biodiversity, and fostering sustainable agricultural practices. The findings of this study contribute to the growing body of knowledge on agroforestry systems and their role in addressing soil degradation, biodiversity loss, and climate change mitigation. This research underscores the importance of adopting holistic approaches to land restoration and highlights the potential of successional agroforestry as a viable solution for sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.