A comparative evaluation of the soil micronutrient status in eucalypt plantations of different rotations in Kerala

A study was carried out in the South Indian Moist deciduous forest and Eucalypt plantations of different rotations in the Thrissur Forest Division Kerala to assess the micronutrient status of soils and the variation with rotation. Among the four micronutrients studied (exchangeable iron, copper, manganese and zinc), there was a significant increase in iron and a decrease in copper concentrations with subsequent rotations under Eucalyptus plantations in comparison to the natural forest of the region. As regards to the zinc and manganese, no significant difference was observed between soils under Eucalypt plantations and natural forest. A significant correlation was observed between iron and pH and organic carbon and also between manganese and organic carbon.