Variability in soil properties influencing pigeonpea (Cajanus cajana L.) yield: a multivariate statistical analysis

Aims: The aim of the study was to reveal variability in soil properties influencing pigeonpea (Cajanus cajana L.) seed yield under semi-arid rainfed condition. Methods: Soils were initially classified into series level and further these divided soil-phase units. For two site years viz., 2018-19 2019-20, surface samples from each unit collected before sowing subsequently crop growth parameters at critical stages recorded. Results: principal component analysis with varimax rotation resulted seven components for both years, having eigenvalues greater than one, explained more 80% variability. The step wise linear regression showed that linearly correlated PC3 (p<0.01), PC4 (p<0.01) PC7 (p<0.05) R2 = 0.679, during 2018-19. Whereas, PC1 PC6 0.677. In year 1, available P2O5, Fe, Zn, S, Cu, number pods, moisture determined yield. 2, K2O, P2O5, Fe, clay, CEC water content All variables together explain yield.