Coffee agroforestry system has effects on microclimate and soil chemical and microbial characteristics

Abstract

Abstract Understanding the effects of agroforestry systems of coffee plants on microclimate, microbial and chemical soil properties, on coffee bean yields and soil quality is important for decision making regarding tree species choice and crop management. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of shading of coffee plants (Coffea arabica) using tree species: Croton floribundus, Moringa oleifera and Senna macranthera compared to full sun cultivation, on the interaction of microclimate, soil microbial and chemical properties. The tree species provided a favorable microclimate for coffee crops, as they reduced the maximum temperatures in the hottest periods and provide high minimum temperatures in the cold dawns, with emphasis on the C. floribundus and S. macranthera species due to the higher shade density. The interaction between microclimate and soil microbial community demonstrates that higher soil moisture rates and lower soil and air thermal amplitudes found under shaded coffee tree agroforestry systems improve soil quality. Coffee agroforestry systems provided positive effects on the soil microbial community due to the effects of shading and the greater amount of phytomass generated by trees, which outcomes greater diversified substrate, improving biological and enzymatic activity and nutrient supply.