Characterization of quartzipsamments in an area of agricultural expansion in Western Bahia

Abstract

Approximately 20% of the Western Bahia, Brazil, soil is classified as a Quartzipsamments, with low natural fertility and low water retention capacity. The characterization of these soil attributes is important for the planning of agricultural activities. Thus it aims to characterize the physicochemical attributes of Quartzipsamments soil in areas destined for the implementation of different integrated production systems in the Western Bahia semiarid region. Soil samples were collected in four experimental areas destined to: caatinga in the process of regeneration , area without initial tillage (plowing and harrowing) and without burning of plant debris, area without initial tillage and with burning of plant debris and area with initial soil preparation with lime application and incorporation. Samples were collected at five points per area at six depths. Were determined the attributes soil density, particle density, granulometry, gravimetric moisture, total porosity, total organic carbon, pH, and the contents of available phosphorus, calcium, aluminum, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, copper, zinc and manganese, potential acidity, sum of bases, cation exchange capacity and base saturation. Were observe a progressive increase in the values of silt, clay, aluminum, and aluminum saturation with the increase in the depth. On the other hand, it is noted that the values of pH, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and sodium reduce with the increase in depth. The adoption of integrated production systems, such as agroforestry systems, is an essential practice to promote nutrient recycling, improve physicochemical attributes, and contribute to the formation and preservation of aggregates and water retention in the soil.