Physical properties and ash content of post-fire Sumatra coastal peat soil in Sei Kepayang District, Asahan Regency, North Sumatra

Abstract

Fires in peatland have numerous detrimental effects as regards degradation of the environment especially changes of soil properties. The purpose of this study is to ascertain how drying and rewetting peatlands affects the physical and chemical characteristics of post-fire peat soil with two depths. This research was carried out in Dusun XIII, Perbangunan Village, Sei Kepayang, Asahan Regency. The factor was drying and re-wetting of the past fire peatland, namely: unburnt peat in wet conditions (P-nw), post-burnt peat in dry conditions (P-bd), and post-burnt peat in wet conditions (P-bw) within 2 tiers namely: 0-30 cm and 30-60 cm respectively. This research data analysis used a descriptive method presented through tables and graphs. The findings indicate that post-fire peat experience changes in moisture content, degree of decomposition, bulk density, soil color, and ash content. In conclusion, there are changes in peat properties in post-fire peat due to drying and rewetting.