Comparative effect of Acacia modesta and Olea ferruginea trees on soil characteristics of Dharabi watershed, Chakwal, Pakistan

Soil nutrient availability and physio-chemical properties under Acacia modesta and Olea ferruginea trees growing in rangeland and agricultural land were compared at Dharabi Watershed, Chakwal, Pakistan. Change in soil characteristics under these tree species were recorded at a depth of 0–15 cm, 16–30 cm, and 31–45 cm and at various distances (1, 3, and 5 m) from tree trunk. Available P, K and saturation percentage were found higher under Olea ferruginea as compared to Acacia modesta. Results showed that soil of rangeland under Olea ferruginea had moderately higher N (0.25 mg/kg), P (6.36 mg/kg), pH (7.83), EC (0.339 dS/m), total organic carbon (2.83 g/kg), CaCO₃ (23.60 mg/kg), organic matter (0.49%) and bulk density (1.55 g/cm³). It was concluded that Olea ferruginea had positive impact on soil physio-chemical properties through improving OM and EC and macronutrients availability. Therefore, this tree species can be suggested as a suitable alternative for sustainable plantation in Dharabi watershed area.