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Subsoiling is the best tillage for fine roots and early-growth of Pinus taeda on clayey Oxisol in the subtropics

Thaynara Paz , Matheus Kulmann, Jéssica França, Grasiele Dick, Mauro Schumacher, José Reichert

Abstract

Context Soil management in forest sites is crucial for ensuring an adequate physical environment for forest growth and development. Aims This study aimed to test if chiseling is improves soil physical conditions, fine root growth, and height and stem diameter growth of Pinus taeda L. in southern Brazil. Methods The experimental design used randomized blocks with three tillage methods, no-tillage/control, handmade pit, and mechanical subsoiling. Parameters evaluated included tree height, stem diameter, and estimated volume at 12 and 24 months after planting. Soil physical and chemical properties, along with root traits such as root length density (RLD) and fine root density (FRD), were analyzed when the trees were 24 months old. Key results Soil chemical properties were unaffected by the tillage methods, but significant differences in soil physical properties were observed. Subsoiling provided the best physical environment, with lower bulk density and penetration resistance. Roots were concentrated in the surface layer (0.00-0.05 m), with an average of 41% RLD and 37% FRD across all treatments. Conclusions Subsoiling provided the greatest tree height, stem diameter, and estimated volume. Therefore, subsoiling is the most effective tillage method for P. taeda growth and development on a clayey Oxisol under subtropical environment. Implications Our results can guide the best strategies for soil tillage in Pinus plantations, helping to minimize the environmental impact through proper soil management and understanding of the dynamics of the roots, maximizing the production of Pinus.

SR24105  Accepted 17 February 2025

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