This paper is the result of land geochemistry engineering.

Objective This study aims to explore how to extract useful geochemical information from land quality geochemical survey data, which feature multiple analysis indicators and a large volume of information, and to provide recommendations for agricultural planting.

Methods Factor analysis was conducted on the topsoil data from the 1∶250 000 land quality geochemical survey in Pingguo City, Guangxi. The main factors were extracted, and the samples were classified based on their factor scores. The geochemical zoning was subsequently carried out according to their spatial distribution characteristics.

Results In the topsoil of the study area, 40 indicators showed significant enrichment, and the average values of 44 indicators in karst areas were significantly higher than those in non−karst areas. A total of six geochemical zones were delineated. In the F1 area, 37 indicators exhibited enrichment, reflecting the influence of carbonate rock parent materials and it is advisable to prioritize the development of agriculture with minimal environmental disturbance, such as economic forests and orchards. In the F2 area, biophilic elements exhibited enrichment, reflecting biogeochemical processes and anthropogenic factors, and it is recommended to focus on developing agriculture such as vegetables and tropical fruits. In the F3 area, low−temperature ore−forming elements exhibited enrichment, reflecting the influence of tectonic activity and mineralization, and it is suitable to develop agriculture such as economic forests, vegetables, and tropical fruits, taking local conditions into account. In the F4 area, Mo and Se exhibited enrichment, and further evaluation and development of selenium rich land resources can be carried out. In the F5 area, F and MgO exhibited enrichment, and it is advisable to prioritize the development of economic forests and water conservation forests. In the F6 area, 39 indicators exhibited depletion, reflecting the influence of detrital rock parent materials, and it is advisable to develop agriculture such as economic forests, vegetables, and tropical fruits, taking local conditions into account.

Conclusions Soil geochemical zoning based on factor analysis provides a "window" for understanding the geochemical distribution characteristics of soil elements from a macro perspective. It also offers a scientific basis for planting area planning, adjustment of agricultural planting structures, and development of characteristic agricultural products.