The role of cover crop (Arachis pintoi Krapov & Gregory) and Leucaena leucocephala (Lam) in soil fertility restoration in Naawan, Philippines: Impacts on nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and organic matter

Intensive farming decline soil fertility, resulting decrease in plant production. Land rehabilitation using cover crops like Arachis pintoi (Krapov & Gregory) and nitrogen-fixing trees like Leucaena leucocephala (Lam) contribute significantly to soil fertility. This study aims to evaluate their effectiveness in improving nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and Organic matter levels in degraded land. Conducted in Naawan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines, soil samples collected were analyzed at the Department of Agriculture’s Regional Soils Laboratory. Results showed a significant improvement in soil nitrogen (N) levels with Arachis pintoi and average phosphorus concentration remained within the normal range. Potassium (K) levels in A. pintoi plots generally increased and organic matter content showed an increase but remained below the optimal 5% threshold recommended for plant growth. L. leucocephala also demonstrated positive impacts on soil chemical properties. Nitrogen levels increased indicating effective nitrogen fixation. Phosphorus also showed an overall increase while Potassium levels exhibited variability, with some plots showing a decrease and increase. Organic matter content also increased though it did not reach the ideal 5% level. Moreover, significant differences were notable in nitrogen levels. A. pintoi resulted in a higher increase compared to L. leucocephala. The significant improvement in N levels suggests that A. pintoi may be more effective in rapid enhancement of soil fertility. published by the International Journal of Agronomy and Agricultural Research (IJAAR)