Insights into the Spatial and Temporal Variability of Soil Attributes in Irrigated Farm Fields and Correlations with Management Practices: A Multivariate Statistical Approach

The evaluation of the spatial and temporal variability soil properties can be valuable to improve crop productivity health. A study was carried out in southern Portugal, three farm fields with irrigated annual crops (layers 0–20 cm 20–40 cm), over years. Factor Analysis (FA) Discriminant (DA) were used analyze data. With FA, observed variables grouped into a smaller number latent related attributes. classify identify most dominant attributes indicators for time space parameters. FA performed surface layer included factors texture, water nutrient retention capacity, chemical composition, fertility. In sub-surface layer, factor structure similar, four availability, influential discrimination (sampling dates) both layers those electric conductivity as preponderant indicator. As differentiation (fields), availability. important discriminant fine sand proportion available potassium, respectively, layers. results obtained showed potential multidimensional integrated assessment patterns variation functions from agricultural practices or degradation processes.