Spatial variability of soil properties and its effect on meadow productivity

Abstract

The spatial heterogeneity of the yield of perennial grasses was studied to identify soil factors that most affect the productivity of sown meadows in South Karelia. Soil variability was studied using various statistical and geostatistical methods. In the course of research, it was found that the best conditions for the growth of perennial grasses are created on soils with a carbon content of about 8% and a slightly acidic or close to neutral reaction environment. It is noted that the type of soil affects the organic carbon content and change in the yield of perennial grasses. In the diagnostic range of peat soils, as the transition from peat-mineral soils to peat soils the organic carbon content in the soil increases and the yield of grasses decreases. The acidity distribution is rather anthropogenic in nature.