Soil Water Retention Chatacteristics of Some Soils under Forests in Temperate Zone of the Himalayas

Some soil profiles developed under temperate zone of Himalayan forest ecosystem, representing Typic Hapludolls and Typic Udorthents were studied for their water retention characteristics in relation to different soil properties. Available soil water was very low and varied within a narrow range. Organic carbon and CEC as well as water retention at various suction values were comparatively higher at lower altitude and on northern aspect. Available water was significantly and positively influenced by clay, silt, CEC and organic carbon, while negatively by sand and bulk density. Most (40–50%) of the available water retained was released up to 200 kPa matric suction.