[Objective] The temporal and spatial variation of soil moisture was revealed under different bamboo forest stands in order to provide the scientific basis for the sustainable management of Phyllostachys edulis forests. [Methods] Based on the field test

three typical P. edulis forests(P. edulis and Cunninghamia lanceolata mixed forest

P. edulis pure forest and P. edulis and broad-leaved tree mixed forest) in northern Fujian Province were investigated in comparison with C. lanceolata pure forest and evergreen broadleaved forest. [Results] The seasonal changes of soil moisture content were consistent with the rainfall and evaporation. Monthly average soil moisture content ranged from 22.98% to 37.88%

and broad-leaved tree mixed forest had the largest mean annual soil moisture content of 31.95%

and followed by P. edulis and C. lanceolata mixed forest

P. edulis and broad-leaved tree mixed forest

C. lanceolata pure forest and P. edulis pure forest(30.46%

30.10%

29.78

and 29.31%

respectively). The moisture contents of different soil layers of evergreen broadleaved forest had significant differences(p<0.01) in the soil profiles

and the soil moisture contents decreased with soil depth

however

the moisture contents of other forest types had no significant differences in the soil profile. [Conclusion] The impacts of forest types and soil depth on soil moisture contents were different

but did not reach significant levels

and the precipitation in the forest canopy was the direct factor influencing soil moisture contents.