Analysis of macro and micronutrient contents and spatial distribution for assessment at regional-scale: Case study Vushtrria region (Kosovo)

AbstractSoil fertility determines crop growth productivity and consequently affects quality and sustainability. Thirty composite samples were taken, most in intensive cultivation and some in uncultivated soil. For soil analysis, classic and instrumental methods were used. Micronutrients in soil were measured by the ICP-OES method. Assessing contents, relationships between macro and micronutrients, and spatial distribution, were used methods descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, Arcgis pro map, clusters, and PCA analyses. The physicochemical properties and potassium levels reflect the balanced distribution. Nitrogen (N) and Phosphorus (P) were at depleted levels. The kriging interpolation patterns showed uniform distribution of macronutrients, small changes were presented in uncultivated soil. Iron (Fe) and copper (Cu) showed acceptable balances, Nickel (Ni), Molybdenum (Mo), and Zinc (Zn) showed increased values compared to the New Dutch list and SEPA, while Boron (B) and selenium (Se) were at low content. PCA analysis and Dendrograms reflected the grouping of variables in one component resulting in the same source. Correlation analysis displays significant relationships between the parameters which were related to the inorganic component of the soil. Is recommended to add fertilizers, and micronutrients for balancing based on good practices and continuous monitoring.