Enhancing Soil Productivity for Sustainable Agriculture in Afghanistan: The Impact of Organic Amendments on Soil Water Holding Capacity and Grapevine Growth in Kabul, Afghanistan

抄録

Afghanistan’s sandy loam soils hold significant agricultural potential; however, they face challenges such as low water-holding capacity, poor organic matter content, and high infiltration rates, which hinder plant growth and productivity. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of organic amendments on soil volumetric water content, water-holding capacity, and grapevine performance. A controlled pot experiment was conducted in a glasshouse at Tokyo University of Agriculture, using five different treatments (T), each applied at a rate of 7.5%: T0 (control), T1 (sawdust), T2 (compost), T3 (chicken manure), and T4 (a combined treatment). Delaware grapevine seedlings were planted in each pot, and volumetric water content and matric potential data loggers were connected to sensors to monitor soil moisture and water suction. Additionally, leaf area index and chlorophyll content were measured using ImageJ software and a chlorophyll-measuring device. The results showed that organic amendments sawdust, compost, chicken manure, and the mixed treatment significantly improved soil water-holding capacity, and overall soil productivity, all of which are essential for sustainable agriculture in water-scarce regions like Afghanistan. Chicken manure and the mixed treatment demonstrated the highest volumetric water content, while sawdust and compost provided the greatest water-holding capacity. Moreover, these amendments enhanced grapevine growth, as indicated by increased leaf area and chlorophyll content. The findings suggest that incorporating organic amendments into sandy loam soils can improve water efficiency, plant growth, and soil sustainability, contributing to the long-term viability of Afghanistan’s agricultural sector.