| Fertilizer Effects on Soil Chemistry in a Mixed Eucalyptus Forest in Australia |
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| Investigators |
| Dr. Christopher Weston, School of Forestry and Resource Conservation, The University of Melbourne, Australia
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What is the Issue? |
| FOREST PRODUCTIVITY |
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Native Eucalyptus of southeastern Australia are very important commercial forests. Forest managers are developing methods of growing eucalypt plantations more efficiently. The effects of using nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers on the active soil around tree roots, known as the rhizosphere, are not fully understood. This research is investigating the effects of fertilizer on the rhizosphere and the nutrient cycling processes in the forest floor. This work is important because it will offer a better understanding of how nutrients become available to tree roots, and in particular to tree roots in nutrient-poor soil conditions.
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What is our goal? |
| SUSTAINABLE FOREST MANAGEMENT.
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| How does fertilizer affect the soil chemistry of a mixed Eucalyptus forest in southeastern Australia? |
Where we currently stand. |
| Collection of soil from experimental sites took place in October 1999 using specially developed methodological techniques, and samples obtained are presently being analyzed. The results from the study are expected soon and it is anticipated that they will highlight both the qualitative and the quantitative importance of low molecular weight organic acids in the bioavailability of nutrients to eucalypts. Unique_Systems_and_Habitats/eucalyptus_australia.jpg"
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