Relationship Between Weather Conditions and the Physicochemical Indicators of Canal Water and Soil in the Gene Pool Garden of Shaki REM

This study aims to evaluate the correlation between weather conditions and the physicochemical parameters (temperature, pH, Eh, and EC) of the irrigation canal and target soil area in the Gene Pool Garden of the Sheki Regional Scientific Center (SRSC). It further assesses the potential impact of these parameters on soil salinization and desertification processes. Monitoring was conducted from January to April 2026, during which 19 water samples and 7 soil samples were collected and analyzed. The results indicate that the canal water is consistently alkaline, with pH values ranging from 7.86 to 8.21. The redox potential (Eh) values were negative, varying between −38.9 mV and −91.6 mV, indicating a reducing environment. Electrical conductivity (EC) was recorded in the range of 11.0–44.1 µS/cm. While these low EC values suggest no immediate risk of secondary salinization, the exceptionally low mineralization of the water may lead to the degradation of soil structure over the long term. The combination of alkaline conditions and negative Eh creates a favorable environment for sodication and desertification tendencies. A clear correlation was observed between rising air temperatures and increases in both alkalinity and reduction potential. Soil analyses revealed more acute alkalization trends compared to the water samples. The soil pH rose from 7.27 to 8.46, while the Eh dropped from −26.4 mV to −109.9 mV, signaling the formation of a strong reduction environment. These findings serve as a scientific basis for adjusting irrigation regimes, preserving soil fertility, and preventing desertification in the region.