Environmental factors influencing heavy metal contamination in chemicalized perennial tree crop fields

This study evaluated heavy metal (Cr, Fe, Cu, Mn, Co, Ni, Pb, Zn, Cd) and macronutrient (Ca, Mg) concentrations in long-term chemicalized coconut fields, considering soil type and crop health. The objectives were to quantify heavy metal contamination in relation to soil type (order and series), root wilt disease (RWD), and NPK content, and to assess Ca and Mg levels relative to these factors. Significant Cd, Pb, Zn, and Cr contamination was found, varying by soil type. Pollution indices identified these metals as primary contaminants exceeding permissible limits, suggesting contaminated fertilizers and agrochemicals as sources. No correlation was found between heavy metals and RWD. Ca and Mg levels varied by soil type. Metal contamination positively correlated with NPK levels, and PCA revealed factors influencing metal content across field categories. Health hazard analysis indicated a potential carcinogenic risk in Cr-contaminated fields. These findings underscore the need for soil-specific fertilizer management in perennial tree-crop systems and highlight the importance of monitoring heavy metal contamination in long-term chemicalized fields, considering soil type.