DOES eucalyptus harm soil? Environmentalists who say it does may be barking up the wrong tree, says a recent study.
A K Srivastav of the Silviculture and Forest Utilisation Division in Rajpipla, Gujarat, found no adverse effects on soil from eucalyptus, which is popularly believed to render soil unfit for agriculture (Indian Forester, Vol 119, No 3). Among the soil properties he studied were moisture content, water-retention capacity, and carbon, phosphorus and potash contents. He found eucalyptus plantations did not change any of these properties to the extent of rendering the soil infertile.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.