Soil bulk density as a soil physical health indicator under different land use systems

Bulk density of a soil is a dynamic property that varies with soil texture, structure, organic matter and water content. It affects soil porosity, available water capacity, plant nutrient availability, rooting depth and microorganism activity; which influences soil degradation and processes. The main aim of the study was to assess role of soil bulk density in soil physical health analysis. The bulk density, porosity and Maximum water holding capacity were non limiting under forest, horticulture and pasture land use systems. The highest mean value of available water retention capacity was recorded under pasture and the lowest was found in wasteland soils. It was observed that OC was positively correlated with porosity, maximum water holding capacity, available water retention capacity and clay contents and negatively correlated with bulk density (r=-0.776**). Results revealed that soil health is better where soil is rich in organic carbon and low in bulk density, had higher water holding capacity and porosity. Regression model found that among the soil physical properties, contribution of bulk density (r²=60.40) was negatively significant and higher than the other parameters.