Distance to flow accumulation lines (DFL) and its relationship with other yield-affecting factors

Abstract

Topography and field hydrological parameters can be used to explain yield spatial variability. One of these parameters is distance to flow accumulation lines (DFL). Previous works showed that yield of irrigated maize in situations of undulated topography has a significant relationship with DFL. The objective of this study was to analyze soil, landscape and plant factors considering their interaction with distance to flow accumulation lines, and verify their influence on yield variability. Different soil parameters (depth, texture, organic matter, hydraulic conductivity, water content) were determined on nine survey areas with different distances to flow accumulation lines. Leaf stomatal conductance was also measured at these areas. Soil depth was the parameter with the most significant interaction with DFL. This suggests that, in the studied conditions, a higher soil depth near flow accumulation lines, allowing a higher volume for root development and retrieving of soil water and nutrients, was the most important factor influencing yield.