JWSS - Journal of Water and Soil Science

The adaptability of Haloxylon appilium to adverse environmental conditions and especially its capability for an appropriate establishment in saline and desert soils has introduced this plant as a suitable means for biological methods to stabilize sand dunes, control erosion and prevent desertification in arid regions. In order to evaluate the ecophysiological characteristics of Haloxylon appilium some characteristics of soils under the long term establishment, survival and development of this plant and ion composition of this plant growing in Yazd province in thirty two growing trees of similar ages and traits within 8 locations of Chah Afzal and Ashkezar were investigated and their height (H), crown diameter (CD) and the above ground biomass index (Yi) were measured. Also, after cutting the trees from their collars, soil profiles were dug underneath the tree locations and soil samples were taken at depths of 0-30, 30-60, 60-90 and 90-120cm from four sides of each profile. The samples were then analyzed for Electrical Conductivity (EC), pH and Cl, Na, Ca, Mg, K concentrations in 1:5 soil to water extracts. The results showed statistically significant differences in soil parameters between the two regions, except for pH and Mg concentrations. The ion concentration of the plants in the two regions showed statistically significant differences for only Cl in shoots and Ca in roots. Based on the plant growth indices the Chah Afzal and Eshkezar regions were respectively evaluated as suitable and unsuitable for Haloxylon appilium growth. In spite of a higher salinity, the higher Ca and K concentration and lower Na/K ratio of Chah Afzal soils may explain the better plant performance in this region against Eshkezar, however, comprehensive researches on application of Ca and K fertilizer are needed to confirm this hypothesis