ISSN:
1432-2137
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Mathematics
Notes:
Zea mays L.) vegetative and reproductive characteristics were measured. Multivariate statistical analyses were applied to the data to determine potential indicators of soil quality. Soil and crop variables explained more than 70% of the variance in soil quality among agricultural histories. The edaphic indicators that showed the greatest change from pristine conditions were organic C, total N, P, Mg, K, B, Ca, and Zn contents and cation exchange capacity. Using crop variables, leaf length, maximum fraction of intercepted photosynthetically active radiation, grain yield, kernel number, prolificacy, and total dry matter at physiological maturity, served to establish a soil quality gradient. Variation of maize growth was associated with edaphic indicators of soil quality and revealed the importance of soil aggregate stability in determining changes in soil quality for crop production.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
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