Soil Carbon Stocks in Two Hybrid Poplar-Hay Crop Systems in Southern Quebec, Canada

摘要: Tree-based intercropping (TBI) systems, consisting of a medium to fast-growing woody species planted in widely-spaced rows with crops cultivated between tree rows, are potential sink for atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2). TBI systems contribute farm income the long-term by improving soil quality, as indicated (C) storage, generating profits from crop plus production and potentially through C credit trading. The objectives current study were: (1) evaluate nitrogen (N) stocks depth increments 0–30 cm layer nine-year old hybrid poplar-hay compare these N adjacent agricultural systems; (2) determine how hay yield, litterfall percent total light transmittance (PTLT) were related systems. two sites (St. Edouard St. Paulin) had intercrop alternating poplar clones hardwoods included an system no trees (i.e., control plots). Soil greater 0–5 increment within 1 m hardwood row, west compared sampling point east at (p = 0.02). However, stored more than 20–30 increments. Accumulation could be due tillage-induced burial non-harvested residues bottom plow-pan. similar all Paulin. not PTLT Paulin, but yield significantly correlated (R 0.87, p < 0.05, n 21), lower proximity yields middle alleys system. Nine years practices did produce significant gains layer, indicating that budget, including sequestered unharvested components (litterfall roots), must assessed profitability Canada.