Studying the effect of white saxaul (Haloxylon persicum) and fourwing saltbush (Atriplex canesces) plantation on soil physico-chemical properties in rangelands of Mallard-Zarandiyeh

Haloxylon sp. and Atriplex sp. are among aridity and salt tolerant species which have been planted extensively in practices of combat desertification and arid and semi-arid rangelands reclamation, in recent decades. This study was performed in order to assessment of saxaul and saltbush planting on soil properties in a part of desert rangelands of Mallard Zarandiyeh. Three sites included: control (natural rangeland), Atriplex canescens plantation and Haloxylon persicum plantation types with an area of five hectares for each of them. In each area, 20 plots along six 500 meters transects were located by randomized-sysematic methods for sampling. Soil samples were collected from two depth (0-30 and 30-60 cm) in control and treatment areas (Atriplex and Haloxylon planting) and Soil samples were physically and chemically analyzed in the laboratory for some variables such as: texture, EC, pH, organic carbon, Caco3, P, CA, Mg, N, K, Cl, Na and HCO3-. Data were analyzed by ANOVA. The results showed that except for acidity and silt (%), there were significant differences between Control area and treated areas (planted sites with Atriplex and Haloxylon) in soil variables. Also, Haloxylon pesicum has been caused the salinization and alkalization and calcification of surface soil, more than Atriplex canesces; but regarding to more adaptation, white saxaul seems to be more suitable plant to reclamation of such arid rangelands, as a native species.