Factor analysis of soil properties in Paraserianthes Falcataria (L.) nielson plantations

Abstract

Soil properties in different layers viz., 0-20 cm, 20- 40 cm, 40-60 cm and 0-60 cm in Paraseriantfies falcataria plantations in Kerala were subjected to factor analysis. Out of die eleven variables studied viz., gravel, sand, pH, organic carbon, exchange acidity, exchangeable bases, total N, P, K, Ca and Mg, factor analysis identified four factors which accounted for more than 72% of the variation in these variables in each layer. The four factors were textural component, organic matter component, acidic component and nutrient capital of the soil. Certain factors in 0-20 cm, 20-40 cm and 40-60 cm layers were common with those in the 0-60 cm layer. The study indicated that it is more advisable to interpret the different factors in the 0- 60 cm layer rather than those in individual layers.