An Investigation of the Effects of Planted Species, Haloxylon Atriplex-Tamarix along Tehran-Qom Free way on Soil Properties

Soil-plant relationships are very important to be known for management and planning of rangelands.
These correlations can help managers and experts in increasing production and preventing financial
damages. Planting range species along freeways is important for a nice view along freeway sides,
prevent on of soil erosion, and acting as wind breaks. Therefore, a study of positive as well as negative
effects of plants on soil is necessary and recommended. Aim in the present study was to survey the
effects of Haloxylon aphylium, Atriplex canescens, and Tamarix aphylia on soil properties along
Tehran-Qom freeway. In planted as well as control regions, two 50 meter transects were established
for comparing the effects of species on soil characteristics. Three points of location at the beginning,
middle and end of transects were considered for digging of profiles . Six profiles (2*3) were dug and
soil samples taken from different depths of 0-10 em, 10 -30 em and 30-60cm. Measured soil parameters
were EC, pH, Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P), Potassium (K), Organic Matter (O.M.), Sodium (Na),
Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Chlorine (C1), Carbonate (Co3) and Bicarbonate (RCo3). Some of the
mentioned parameters had positive effects while others exhibited negative effects. Paired sample t-test
was employed to compare the data obtained from planted, and control treatments. Results indicated
that some soil elemerts such as 'N, P, K and a .M. increased due to A. canescens while acidity
decreased. T. aphylia caused an increased in N, P, K and ECe. N, K, ECe acidity increased due to the
presence of H. aphylium while P decreased. Altogether, results indicate, as weel as that A. canescens
plantation improves soil characteristics, T. aphylla stands in between, while. H. aphylium can't be
recommended in the mentioned sites.