Effects of soil-bedrock properties on tree growth in black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia l.) afforestation in Isparta

In this master of science thesis, it was aimed to determine how parent material and soil properties affect tree growth in some black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) afforestation sites with different habitat characteristics around Isparta province.With regard to habitat characteristics, 7 different afforestation sites were evaluated. In each of 7 afforestation sites, 3 sample plots having likely similar stand characteristics were taken. Each plots is circle shaped and has 10 trees, the height and diameter of trees were measured. Coordinates, elevation, aspect, and slope each site were measured and landforms and the type of parent material were noted. Soil profile was investigated and soil samples were taken from 0-30 cm depth in total 21 sample plots. Texture, soil reaction (pH), organic carbon, total nitrogen and calcium carbonate were analyzed in soil samples. The diameter at breast height ad total height of trees were statistically evaluated with Variance and Duncan tests. Furthermore, the relations between tree diameter, tree height and soil properties were evaluated with Correlation analysis then interpreted ecologically. As a result of study, the positive correlation between tree height and soil organic carbon and soil total nitrogen was found in black locust's afforestation areas. Also, it was determined that black locust has a good growth in sandy loam soils despite has not good growth on clay soils.