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Sep 20, 2024Keywords:
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Impact of Senna spectabilis on soil properties: Evidence from the Mayaga and Eastern Savannah in the Eastern Province of Rwanda
Abstract
This research assesses the impact of Senna spectabilis on soil properties. Laboratory analysis of soil samples was carried out. Samples were collected from 16 sites of Mayaga and Eastern Savannah Agro-ecological zones in the Eastern Province of Rwanda. From each site, a composite soil sample under the tree canopy (treatment) as well as a control composite sample was taken away from trees. Each sample was taken at a depth of 0-30 cm. Results show that Senna spectabilis has various effects on soil. It increases soil nutrients such as Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Calcium and Magnesium. It has improved the soil organic carbon (50%), soil aggregate stability (9.1%), soil pH (7.0%), and soil moisture content (23.9%). Moreover, it reduces the exchangeable acidity (20%). Our findings validate the hypotheses that Senna spectabilis has a positive effect on soil chemical, and physical properties. Although the results suggest planting more Senna spectabilis in agroforestry systems due to its capacity to improve soil properties, further research could focus on assessing factors that affect its adoption by farmers and studying nutrient dynamics beneath its canopy as well as its nutrient uptake patterns.
