Abstract:
inaccessibility and financial stress. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of indigenous tree for soil fertility improvement in Gummara-maksegnit watershed. Questionnaires were administered to 385 respondents to determine three topmost preferred tree species for soil fertility enhancement. Leaf litter from three tree species and soil samples from both under the canopy of these tree species and open area was collected for chemical properties determination. Croton macrostachyus, Cordia africana and Olea europaea was perceived as the best by 42, 32 and 26% of the respondents respectively. Nutrient analysis result revealed that litter fall of C. macrostachyus, C. africana, and O. europaea contain significantly different (P < 0.05) nitrogen value. In addition, litter fall of C. macrostachyus and C. africana also contain higher concentration of phosphorus and potassium than O. europaea. Soil properties under canopy of all trees significantly differ (P<0.05) from the open area because of nutrient addition from litter fall to the underneath soil. Therefore, it is necessary to train and advise land owners to grow these trees species on their farmland.
