Effects of Soil Conditioners on The Improvement of Water Retentivity of Masa-soil

Abstract

The experiment was carried out to clarify the effects of some soil conditioners on the improvement of water retentivity of Masa-soil (decomposed granite soil). The soil conditioners used in the experiment were bark compost, sawdust compost and perlite. Seven experimental plots were set up and young Camphor trees were planted in each plot on April 18, 1984. The trees were cut off water after August 23 until died. Soil moisture content of each plot was measured every day. The results were as follows;
1) A close correlation was found between the days before beginning to wilt and available moisture content of soil.
2) Perlite retained more available moisture than the other two soil conditioners.
3) Bark compost showed almost no effects of the improvement of water retentivity of Masa-soil.