Role of agroforestry systems in enrichment of soil organic carbon and nutrients: A review

Abstract

Monocropping systems have intensively exploited natural resources in recent decades, and the indiscriminate use of inorganic fertilizers, combined with agro-chemicals, has resulted in the deterioration of natural resources such as soil and water, resulting in the loss of soil fertility. Agroforestry is an ideal scientific strategy for eco-restoration of degraded areas and sustainable resource management when compared to mono cropping systems. It is a land management and farming strategy that aims to not only produce food from marginal agricultural land, but also to significantly improve the quality of the environment and soil. When compared to regular crop removal in a solo cropping system, leaf litters and their breakdown under tree-based vegetation favour nutrients enrichment. The adoption of an agroforestry system resulted in the accumulation of soil organic carbon, increased the availability of macronutrients and micronutrients, and improved the microenvironment for plant growth. As a result, pairing suitable tree species with agricultural crops can contribute in the maintenance or enhancement of soil fertility. Based on these findings, it is advised that farmers adopt agroforestry systems since they have enormous potential to improve soil fertility, leading to increased crop output and food security.