Sandy soils compatibility and least limiting water range under organic, irrigated and perennials management

Agricultural systems have advanced, but challenges remain in improving efficiency while maintaining soil quality in irrigated areas. This study evaluated compaction, compressibility, and the least limiting water range (LLWR) in sandy soils cultivated with West Indian cherry (Malpighia punicifolia L.) in Northeastern Brazil. Soil quality was assessed in three organic management areas: one (A1) and six (A6) years under center pivot irrigation, and ten (A10) years under microsprinklers. Samples were collected at depths of 0.0-0.10 m and 0.20-0.30 m in rows (R) and interrows (I) to analyze compaction degree (DC), maximum density (Bdmax), critical moisture (WCcrit), preconsolidation pressure (σp), compression index (Cc), LLWR, and total organic carbon (TOC). Higher DC was observed in A1R (99%), A1I (92%), and A6I (97%) at 0.0-0.10 m, and A10I (92%) at 0.20-0.30 m. LLWR was smaller in the interrows of A1 and A6, and in the rows of A10 at both depths. Increased surface organic matter reduced penetration resistance and improved water availability. LLWR proved more sensitive than DC and σp in detecting soil degradation. The study highlighted differences in soil properties between center pivot and microsprinkler irrigation systems and their combined impacts on soil structure.