Forest soil characteristics are not only unique but their interpretation also differs from cropland soils. Just as there are diverse forest types, there are many soil variants that need different management. Today, forest plantations are being intensively managed for profitable timber, pulpwood and energy production. Site selection, species selection, site productivity evaluation, silvicultural treatments, and soil amendments need crucial soil information. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the physical, chemical and biological properties of forest soils and their implications on forest vegetation. Topics discussed include: major forest types of the world and their associated soils; forest biomass and nutrient dynamics; organic matter turnover and nutrient recycling; forest soil disturbance; forest soil and climate change; and forest soil management and silvicultural treatments.

Balanced coverage of the principles of soil science and their application to management of forest soils. Topics range from classification systems and biological, physical, and chemical properties of soils, to silviculture and current methods of tree nutrition and fertilization. This edition is updated to include new information on long-term productivity, soil management in different forest types, plus new chapters on tropical forest soils and predicting response to cultural practices.

Genesis os forest soils. Soil as a medium for tree growth. Analysis of forest soil. Forest soil in relation to silviculture and forest management. Management of forest nursery soils.