Perennial Legumes Pueraria phaseoloides and Leucaena leucocephala Exhibit High Potential for Fertility Restoration of Degraded Mined Soils in Ghana

ABSTRACT Background Rapid expansion of opencast mining in developing nations is exerting profound pressure on land resources, with the extent of degradation constraining the effectiveness of topsoil replacement and organic amendments in restoring soil organic carbon (SOC) and nitrogen (N) pools, which are key for soil health and productivity. Aim This study assessed the potential of perennial legumes ( Leucaena leucocephala , Gliricidia sepium , Pueraria phaseoloides ) to restore the fertility of mined degraded soils. Methods An on‐site revegetation experiment with a control (un‐revegetated) treatment and selected legumes was established. SOC and total N were monitored prior to and 2 and 5 years after revegetation. Two and 3 years after revegetation, maize was cultivated to assess soil productivity under the influence of selected legumes. Results There was initial decline in SOC and total N at early stages of revegetation. However, significant increases were observed relative to the control with pronounced effects 5 years after revegetation. Highest changes in SOC (3.4–12.4 g kg −1 ) and total N (0.3–1.1 g kg −1 ) were observed under L. leucocephala . Growth of maize revealed significant improvement under P. phaseoloides , attaining highest plant height (≈80 cm) compared to the lowest (<30 cm) in the control treatment 3 years after revegetation. Despite significant increases in SOC and total N, plant growth was generally limited. Conclusions Although legumes showed strong potential in restoring soil fertility, utilizing their full potential requires adaptive establishment strategies, especially for L. leucocephala , and consistent management of P. phaseoloides to control its vigorous spread and maintain balanced ground cover.