Vol. 9, Issue 1, Part H (2025)

Soil organic carbon (SOC) is an essential component of the Earth's carbon cycle, significantly influencing soil fertility and productivity. The level of SOC in the soil depends on the equilibrium between carbon inputs-such as plant residues and organic amendments-and losses through microbial activity and respiration. SOC exists in diverse pools, including active or labile, intermediate, and stable or passive forms, each contributing uniquely to soil properties. Its stability and distribution are shaped by various factors, including climatic conditions, vegetation types, and land management strategies. Dryland soils, characterized by limited rainfall and high evapotranspiration, typically exhibit low organic matter content, resulting in poor fertility. The harsh environmental conditions, combined with high evaporation rates, often exacerbate issues like salinization, further degrading soil quality. Increasing SOC levels in these regions is vital for enhancing soil health and productivity. Agroforestry, which involves integrating trees and shrubs into farming systems, offers a viable approach for improving carbon sequestration in drylands. Specific strategies such as using leguminous trees, applying mulches, adopting cover cropping, and minimizing tillage can effectively boost carbon storage in these soils, enhancing their fertility, resilience, and overall sustainability.