Spatial distribution of chemical soil attributes in the State of Santa Catarina, Southern Brazil

Abstract

The mapping of soil chemical properties constitutes a tool for planning actions to correct those who have limiting
values for agricultural production in some region. The spatial distribution of some of these attributes in the State of Santa
Catarina, was determined from standardized collection of samples of two fields with the use and management systems more
representative of each region. The samples were collected in the 0-20cm layer, in which were determined the organic matter
content and the attributes related to soil acidity and soil exchange complex. The mean values of certain attributes in the fields
of each municipality were georeferenced in geographic coordinates of its headquarters, and elaborating maps of the spatial
distribution of class values with the software ILWIS 3.2 Academic. It was observed a large spatial variation in soil chemical
properties in the state, with higher content of exchangeable manganese and potassium and extractable phosphorus, copper
and zinc in the west; lower pH in water and organic matter along the Coast region and in the Upper Itajaí Valley, and higher
organic matter content and lower pH, base saturation and phosphorus available in the plateau. These information’s are
fundamental for the development of land use and management plans considering regional peculiarities.