Mapping the Local Distribution of Some Physico-chemical Properties of the Soils of the Meriç Delta Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Hüseyin Sarı; Gökben Topal

doi:10.29133/yyutbd.1673659

Mapping the Local Distribution of Some Physico-chemical Properties of the Soils of the Meriç Delta Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyse the some physical and chemical properties of the soils of the Meriç Delta, which is located in northwestern Türkiye and has a high agricultural potential, and to investigate the relationship between these properties and plant nutrients. Due to its alluvial soil, the Meriç Delta is a fertile agricultural area and the soil properties of the region directly affect agricultural productivity. In the study, pH, organic matter, lime and essential nutrients were analysed in 89 soil samples taken from 30 different sites at a depth of 0-90 cm. Soil texture, organic matter content, electrical conductivity and nutrient spatial distribution were mapped using Geographic Information Systems and correlation tests were carried out. The data obtained show that there is a strong positive relationship between the percentage of clay and organic matter, and that the percentage of silt is positively correlated with electrical conductivity (EC). A significant relationship was found between soil pH and organic matter, with higher pH values increasing the amount of organic matter. The results showed that nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and iron are better retained in areas with high organic matter. In addition, high levels of electrical conductivity were found to reduce the bioavailability of zinc. A negative relationship was found between potassium and sand percentage and it was observed that the potassium ratio decreased as the amount of sand increased. The results of the study provide important data for improving the soils of the Meriç Delta for sustainable agricultural practices. Increasing soil organic matter content, optimising pH levels and maintaining nutrient balance are recommended to sustainably increase agricultural productivity. This study provides a valuable resource for improving the agricultural potential of the region and developing appropriate soil management strategies for sustainable agricultural practices.

Keywords

Project Number

NKUBAP.03.YL.22.418

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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Conservation and Improvement of Soil and Water Resources

Journal Section

Research Article

Authors

Hüseyin Sarı ^*
0000-0002-8903-5618
Türkiye

Gökben Topal
0009-0007-8031-4198
Türkiye

Publication Date

December 25, 2025

Submission Date

April 10, 2025

Acceptance Date

September 16, 2025

Published in Issue

Year 2025 Volume: 35 Number: 4

DOI

https://doi.org/10.29133/yyutbd.1673659

IZ

https://izlik.org/JA84CD33FF

Cite

RIS / Bibtex

APA

Sarı, H., & Topal, G. (2025). Mapping the Local Distribution of Some Physico-chemical Properties of the Soils of the Meriç Delta Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Yuzuncu Yıl University Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 35(4), 693-706. https://doi.org/10.29133/yyutbd.1673659