Trees and soil nutrients in south west Queensland

Abstract

Stable native grass communities and ready establishment of introduced grasses under mature poplar box trees prompted shallow soil sampling under and away from trees. Soil analyses established a higher available phosphorus and exchangeable potassium status under mature poplar box and other trees. A positive association between pH and trees existed in some but not all areas. Possible sources of phosphorus and potassium, related to soil organic matter, deep-rootedness and longevity of trees, and soil movement by wind, are discussed.