New Study: Soil Nitrogen Doubles Tropical Forest Recovery Speed
A hidden factor in soil can make forests grow back much faster. New research shows tropical forests recover up to twice as quickly when soil nitrogen is plentiful. This discovery could reshape global reforestation efforts against climate change.
The Large-Scale Experiment
Scientists from the University of Leeds led a groundbreaking study. They launched the largest long-term experiment of its kind. Their goal was to understand how nutrients affect forest regrowth after clearing.The team studied 76 forest plots across Central America. Each plot represented forests at different recovery stages. Researchers monitored tree growth and death for up to 20 years. They applied different nutrient treatments to see the effects.
Nitrogen’s Powerful Role
The results were clear. Nitrogen emerged as the critical nutrient for faster recovery. Forests with enough nitrogen rebounded twice as fast in the first decade. Phosphorus alone did not produce this dramatic effect.Lead author Wenguang Tang explained the importance. “Our study suggests ways we can boost carbon capture through reforestation,” he said. This is done by managing nutrients available to growing trees.
Practical Solutions, Not Fertilizer
However, the researchers do not recommend widespread fertilizer use. Adding synthetic nitrogen at scale could cause harmful side effects. For example, it might increase emissions of nitrous oxide, another greenhouse gas.Instead, they propose natural, practical solutions. One effective method is planting legume family trees, like beans. These plants naturally add nitrogen to the soil. Another strategy is prioritizing restoration in areas where air pollution has already enriched soils with nitrogen.
