Abstract

The study conducted in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta (VMD) was to examine soil degradation and soil compaction in fruit tree plantations due to the impact of agricultural activities. The specific objective was to elucidate the impact of soil compaction on current and future production. Fruit trees are one of the most important components for the development of the delta. The plantation areas have increased rapidly over the recent years (from 117,000 ha in 1996 to 300,000 ha by the year 2006). Fruit trees in this region are usually grown on raised beds to avoid submergence due to annual flood. Most of the soils of raised beds are alluvial and perturbed from the natural soils. Studies on the raised beds have recognized trends of soil compaction during ageing of the raised beds. However, there are many uncertainties and consequently a need for further investigations exists, to improve the knowledge and understanding of soil processes in the region.

Key word: Citrus orchards, soil compaction, soil degradation, Mekong delta.