Information from the abstract
Preserving soil health is essential for sustaining ecosystem functions and human well-being, yet it is increasingly challenged by intensive agricultural practices. In Nonthaburi Province, Thailand, smallholder farmers produce premium-quality Monthong durian ( Durio zibethinus L.) in raised-bed orchards using diverse management strategies whose impacts on soil health remain poorly understood. Therefore, this study assessed how contrasting management practices affect soil physicochemical properties, biodiversity and functioning. Thirty-two farmers were interviewed to characterize management diversity, with their orchards grouped into three clusters based on fertilizer and irrigation regimes: C1 (high organic fertilizer and tap water), C2 (high canal water use), and C3 (high mineral fertilizer use). Soil analyses conducted in 15 orchards showed predominantly clay textures and relatively high soil organic carbon levels (3.45–4.31%). Significant differences emerged for available phosphorus and extractable calcium, with Cluster C2 presenting the lowest concentrations. While earthworm biomass did not differ significantly among clusters, bait-lamina testing indicated higher soil biological activity in C1 than in C2 or C3. Overall, the management practices influenced nutrient availability and biological functioning, with the fertilization regimes shaping P, K, and Ca status, while organic amendments enhanced soil biological activity. Analysis of the results highlighted the complementarity of various methods to assess soil health. Furthermore, these findings should contribute to the development of more sustainable soil management strategies to maintain fertility and support long-term durian orchard productivity.
Why this record is monitored
This record has an Impact Signal of 89/100 based on recency, source, collaboration, and bibliographic signals. It prioritizes monitoring and is not a judgment of research quality.
Related topics: Tree Root and Stability Studies · Seedling growth and survival studies · Agroforestry and silvopastoral systems
Thai researcher and institutional participation
Yanesa Preewilai · Kannika Sajjaphan · Patjima Kongplub · Monrawee Meetam · Wutthida Rattanapichai · Alexis Thoumazeau · Kasetsart University · Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives
Data limitations
This page is a bibliographic record based on abstract-level information, not a full analysis or quality assessment. Verify the DOI and original article before citation.