Efecto de las propiedades físicas del suelo en el contenido de agua en zonas aluviales de uso agrícola, rio Buenavista.

Abstract

This research examines the effect of the physical properties of the soil on the water content in alluvial areas for agricultural use on the "Pedro Ramos" farm located in the La Victoria parish, Santa Rosa canton, El Oro province, Ecuador. The objective is to evaluate how apparent density, real density, electrical conductivity (EC), pH and soil texture affect water retention and, consequently, the productivity of the banana crop. To achieve the objectives of the study, a comprehensive methodology was used that included location, research design, and data collection both in the field and in the laboratory and equipment such as GPS, Imacimus 10 multiparametric meter and potentiometer. The investigation began with a topographical survey of the property using GPS, and the data was processed with AutoCAD (2019) to create a plan in accordance with MAG regulations. The study adopted a descriptive observational approach, without a control group, to describe and measure the variables over a short period. The variables evaluated in the banana crop included the height of the offspring, number of leaves, weight of hands and rachis, number of fingers, volumetric humidity, and nitrates. The results revealed that the apparent density and the true density showed asymmetric distributions, with means less than the medians, reflecting a variability in the physical properties of the soil that affects the retention of water and nutrients. The low standard deviation in bulk density and moderate variability in true density indicate relative homogeneity and differences in soil composition, respectively. Electrical conductivity presented low variability, suggesting a uniform distribution of salts, while pH showed low variability, indicating well-managed soils. The texture of the soil presented a high variability, which impacts its ability to retain water and nutrients. Daily rainfall showed an irregular distribution, with peaks in June and February, which is crucial for agricultural planning. Volumetric soil moisture showed variability over 10 weeks, with high outliers in some weeks, suggesting inconsistent irrigation issues. The negative correlation between apparent density and porosity suggests that denser soils have lower porosity, while effective porosity has an important relationship with pH. The study concludes that the physical properties of the soil significantly influence water retention and agricultural productivity. Constant monitoring of these properties, implementation of soil moisture sensors, and adjustment of irrigation practices to ensure uniform water distribution are recommended. Soil texture should also be improved by adding organic matter and agricultural activities should be adjusted based on rainfall data. Furthermore, it is suggested to develop strategies to optimize water retention and continue investigating the correlations between soil properties and their impact on water and nutrient retention.