Apple–Soybean Mixed Stand Increased Fine Root Distribution and Soil Water Content with Reduced Soil Nitrate Nitrogen

In dryland agroecosystems, intercropping fruit trees with legumes is often an important option for maintaining and improving soil N quality fertility. The relationships of fine root length density (FRLD), water content (SWC), NO3−-N (SNC) in agroforestry systems essential optimal orchard management. Our objective was to understand the temporal spatial dynamics FRLD, SWC, SNC apple–soybean system competition between species ecological niches. We established soybean apple, including monoculture apple (MA), (MS), intercrop (AS) treatments. collected data on distribution SNC, productivity under MA, AS, MS from 2020 2021. This study showed that AS had more FRLD compared (IA) increased at 20–60 cm depth 50 100 tree decreased 0–40 150 200 tree. Intercropping SWC effect concentrated cover area. reached its maximum seed filling stage, occurring mainly 0–20 depth. affected growth also reduced yield a land equivalent ratio = 1.45. By understanding subsoil resources interspecific competition, we can provide theoretical basis exploring potential sustainable intensification systems.