Spatial Modelling of Soil Quality and Lime Requirement for Precision Management in Humid Tropical Coffee Systems

Abstract

Soil heterogeneity and acidity are major constraints to Coffea arabica production in the Amazonian soils of Peru. This study developed a spatial predictive framework that integrates a weighted Soil Quality Index (SQIw) and geostatistical modelling (Regression–Kriging and Ordinary Kriging) to estimate lime requirements (LRs) and delineate management zones. A total of 69 coffee-cultivated soil samples were analysed, and spectral information (NDVI) was incorporated to estimate relative yield (RR). Multivariate analysis defined a Minimum Data Set (MDS) composed of exchangeable Na, available P, pH and silt percentage; the highest weights were assigned to P (Wi = 0.292) and pH (Wi = 0.276). SQIw exhibited wide variability (0.01–0.87; CV = 51.8%) and was grouped into five classes, with low (43.5%)- and very low (21.7%)-quality classes predominating. SQIw showed a strong relationship with RR (r = 0.64). Geostatistical models performed differently between localities: in Nuevo Huancabamba, Regression–Kriging improved prediction accuracy (SQIw: R² = 0.58; LR: R² = 0.396), whereas in San José de Sisa, Ordinary Kriging provided better fits only for LRs (R² = 0.32). Nuevo Huancabamba is dominated by moderate-to-high-quality soils (87.29%; SQIw > 0.6) and low lime requirements (74.94%; <0.84 t ha⁻¹), in contrast with San José de Sisa, where low-quality soils prevail (89.45%; SQIw < 0.4) alongside high LRs (75.26%; 2.54–7.13 t ha⁻¹). The resulting maps enable targeted interventions—precision liming and focused P fertilisation—to correct acidity and phosphorus deficiency, thereby improving input-use efficiency and enhancing the sustainability of Amazonian coffee systems.