Terracing boosts root growth and soil stability in dryland forests.
Terracing in the Loess Plateau of China affects root distribution and soil properties. Level benches have the most roots and soil nutrients, while fish-scale pits and reverse-slope terraces follow. Root distribution varies with terracing, impacting soil moisture, nutrients, and stability. Fine roots are most abundant in the topsoil and decrease with depth. Fine roots improve soil water, nutrients, and stability, while coarse roots may deplete nutrients and reduce soil stability. Level benches are recommended for planting Pinus tabulaeformis Carr. to enhance soil quality in dry regions.