Comparative evaluation of soil physicochemical properties under different agroforestry systems in the eastern plains agro climatic zone of Uttar Pradesh

Agroforestry is considered a sustainable land-use practice that contributes to soil improvement, climate resilience, and livelihood security; however, its effects on soil properties in Eastern Plains agro-climatic zone of Uttar Pradesh is not well quantified. This study was conducted during 2024–2026 to evaluate the influence of different tree-based agroforestry systems on soil physico-chemical properties across 11 blocks of Ayodhya district in Eastern Plains of Uttar Pradesh, India. Soil samples were collected from various agroforestry systems at three depths (0–20, 20–40, and 40–60 cm), and tree density was assessed usingquadrant method. The results revealed that soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN) differed significantly among agroforestry practices and were higher under tree-based systems. SOC was highest in woodlots established in 2019 (1.37%), representing a 13.22% increase over woodlots established in 2025 (1.21%), indicating greater carbon accumulation with increasing woodlot age. SOC declined significantly with increasing soil depth and showed a positive relationship with tree density. Available phosphorus and potassium were highest in surface soil layer (0–20 cm) and decreased with depth. Soil bulk density increased with depth, while total soil porosity exhibited an opposite trend. This research demonstrates the potential of agroforestry systems to improve soil fertility, enhance soil physical condition, promote soil carbon and nitrogen sequestration, alongside strengthening livelihood security through sustainable tree-based land-use systems under similar ecosystems.