Comparative Analysis of Soil Properties and Moisture Retention in the Vadoda Range Forest of Muktainagar, Jalgaon District, India

Abstract

The present study evaluates the physicochemical properties of forest soils collected from three sites in the Vadoda Range Forest of Muktainagar, Jalgaon District. Soil samples were analysed during 2017–18 and 2018–19 to assess spatial and temporal variations in moisture content, water-holding capacity, pH, salinity, electrical conductivity, and macro- and micronutrients. Moisture content ranged from 6.95 to 30.71 percent, while water-holding capacity varied between 34 and 59.5 percent. Macronutrients such as nitrogen and potassium showed higher values in specific sites and years, whereas micronutrients, particularly Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn, declined noticeably in 2018–19. pH values remained neutral to slightly alkaline (7.00–7.68). The findings highlight significant heterogeneity in soil fertility and indicate possible influences of vegetation, microclimate, and soil parent material. The study provides essential baseline information for forest soil management and ecological monitoring.