The objective of this work was to access spatial variations of soils from experimental plots for integrated coconut production based on the detailed mapping of soils and the construction of contour maps of soil properties. Observations and measurements were formed and samples collected in small trenches and soil profiles. The amount of soil clay from small trenches was evaluated in the field by finger touch feeling. Physical and chemical analyses were performed in all samples. Particle-size-distribution (profiles), Al, Ca and Mg, potential acidity, K and Na, pH, available P and organic C were determined. In samples from profiles Fe, Al, Ti, P and Si were determined by sulphuric acid digestion. Fe was also analyzed in the clay fraction by Na dithionite-citrate-bicarbonate extraction. X ray diffraction analysis was performed in the oxide-free clay fraction. The construction of semi-variograms made the classification possible, and the soil properties were compared based on the degree of spatial dependence. Contour maps were drawn using the kriging interpolator method. The mapped area is characterized by a broad summit of low coastal tablelands, with a closed depression in the far south of the area. From the depression center outwards we find, in sequence, a clayey Haplic Cambisol (Inceptsol), clay-laom Yellow Latosol (Oxisol) and a sandy-loam Yellow Latosol. These Oxisols have cohesive subsurface horizons. Attributes with high heterogeneity degree predominate. Average values of P, K and Ca + Mg are influenced by liming and systematic fertilization of the planting area. Spatial dependence was observed for all analyzed variables, expressed by the semi-variogram models. The C0/(C0 + C1 ) ratio revealed a moderate to strong spatial dependence degree. The contour maps detailed differences for several attributes, also indicated by the soil map, as influenced by the depression in the far south. Two management units were discriminated for the study area, which require distinct water and soil management practices.
Cohesive Yellow Latosol; Oxisol; geostatistics; land use planning
