Soil Suitability for Certain Crops

Sustainable agricultural production in southeastern Nigeria is hindered by declining soil fertility, where continuous cultivation and poor management have intensified nutrient depletion. This study evaluated soil fertility under arable, pasture, and forest land uses at the Ifite Ogwari Campus of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (06°60′14″N, 06°95′02″E) to identify key constraints and propose management options. A transect method was employed, and three representative soil profiles were dug across the land uses, from which twelve samples were collected along genetic horizons and analyzed for physical and chemical properties. Results revealed that soils were predominantly sandy loam (SL) to loam (L) in arable and pasture lands, and sandy loam (SL) to loamy sand (LS) in forest land use. Bulk density (1.30-1.55 Mg m⁻³) and porosity (41.5-50.9%) suggested favorable structure, but wide spatial variability was recorded for organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen (TN), and clay (CV >30%). The soils were strongly acidic (pH 4.9-5.6), with low organic carbon (<4.5 g kg⁻¹), total nitrogen (<0.4%), and critically deficient available phosphorus (<3 mg kg⁻¹). Exchangeable Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ were also below critical levels. Correlation heatmaps showed strong positive associations between OC and TN (r ≈ 0.99) and between Ca2+ and total exchangeable bases (r ≈ 0.98), with BD and TP inversely related (r ≈-0.99). These findings identify soil acidity, organic matter decline, and phosphorus deficiency as the dominant fertility constraints. Recommended strategies include integrated use of organic amendments, liming, and phosphorus fertilization to restore soil productivity and support sustainable intensification in southeastern Nigeria.

Purpose: The study investigated spatial variability of soil moisture in soils of Southern Nigeria for arable crop production in order to cushion the effect of drought on crops Some of the crops grown during the planting season experiences drought. Research Method: Auger soil samples were collected, bulked at 0-15cm and 15-30 cm depths in selected locations in Akwa Ibom, Imo and Rivers states of Southern Nigeria. Core samples were also collected for determinations of bulk density, gravimetric soil moisture and permeability characteristics of soils. The average values were presented as map. Findings and Values: Soil colour indicated reduction reactions. Soil structural grade showed weak to moderate structures while fine to very fine classes dominated. Sand-sized particles dominated over other particle sizes and ranged from 800 to 910 g/kg. At the depth of 0-15cm, soil moisture ranged from 3.52 to 18.3% (dry season) and from 10.99 to 22.87% (rainy season). At 15-30cm depth, soil moisture varied from 4.69 to 19.70% (dry season) and from 12.66 to 31.49%. (rainy season). The map revealed that soils of Ngor Okpala in Imo State had the least average moisture content during the rainy season. Soil Sampling was limited to the depths of 0 to 30cm and these results may not be applicable to crops that exceed this rooting depth. This research exposes adverse soil moisture changes spatially capable of reducing crop production in soils of Southern Nigeria.

The soils on Imo clay shale residua at Omasi-Agu and Omor areas in Anambra State, Nigeria were sampled in order to characterize classify and evaluate their current suitability for rice production following standard scientific procedures. The soils generally belong to loamy textural classes or finer, especially in the subsoil layers. The morphological and physical properties of soils showed that the soils were poorly drained favouring high water retentivity due to low hydraulic conductivity and slow permeability. All these soil conditions support good rice performance. Though the soils at Omasi-Agu contained high levels of exchangeable bases, exchangeable acidity was equally high leading to low base saturation of &lt; 35% but at Omor the base saturation was &gt; 35%. Thus, the soils were, respectively, classified as Typic Kandiaquults (Soil Taxonomy) correlated with Gleyic Cambisols of the World Reference Base for Soil Resources (WRBSR) and Typic Kandiaqualfs (Soil Taxonomy) correlat...

Soil erosion by water remains a serious ecological challenge in Anambra State that often leads to destruction of farmlands and reduction of area of land available for agricultural activities; hence, the study evaluated soil erosion potential in Awka and Ifite Ogwari areas of Anambra State. Auger and core soil samples were randomly collected from each land use practice (cassava farm, grassland, and rice farm) in three replicates at 0–30 cm depth, after which the collected samples were subjected to laboratory analysis. Significant differences were determined statistically at 5% probability level. The results showed the soils of the studied areas to be acidic. Soils in Awka and Ifite Ogwari, respectively, belonged to sandy loam and clay textural classes. Bulk density ranged from 1.73-2.02 g/cm3. The highest moisture content (8.81%) was obtained under the rice farm in Ifite Ogwari. Ksat ranged from 0.01-0.04 cm/hr, while MWD ranged from 0.34 - 0.90 mm in both sites. OC ranged from 0.36-1.12% and was highest under the cassava farm in Ifite Ogwari. DOA was higher (29.48%) in grassland of Ifite Ogwari compared to cassava farm of Awka with a value of 24.38%. Characterised by low organic carbon content and loss of structure, the studied areas were found to be erosion-prone; therefore, replenishing the soil organic carbon upon land utilisation is key to improving soil stability.

Soil management is needed to improve soil fertility and crop productivity in compound farms, particularly in areas with varying slope gradients. Limited information is available related how slope gradients affect soil fertility in compound farms, particularly in tropical Africa. Understanding these dynamics can provide insights into improving nutrient management practices in traditional
agricultural systems, where the dependence on external inputs is minimal. Soil nutrient dynamics
within compound farms were evaluated at the compound farms of the upper slopes (CFUS) and
lower slopes (CFLS) in the tropical environment of Nsukka, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected at
0–20 cm depth from both slope positions across 20 compound farms. Different key soil properties,
including soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, exchangeable bases, and cation
exchange capacity, were assessed to determine fertility gradients influenced by slope position. Soil
fertility status was higher at the upper slopes as opposed to the lower slopes. The results did not follow the typical trend of soil nutrients being transported from the upper to the lower slope, probably due to anthropogenic activities such as buildings and road constructions. The result highlights the role of slope position in soil fertility management, supporting slope-specific soil management strategies in tropical farming systems.

Predictive accuracy of a soil map is the scientific requirement for its use. To determine the extra information contained in a manuscript soil map (1:250,000) of Imo State, in the coastal plains sand zone of the state, its predictive accuracy was compared with that of the published (1:1,000,000) version. The study was done with 106 soil samples randomly taken in the location of study with the auger at two depths, 0-20cm and 20-40cm, which were analysed using standard laboratory procedures to determine physic-chemical propertiessand, silt, clay, silt/clay, pH, Exch. Ca, Mg, K, Na, Al, H, Al+H, ECEC, BS, ESP, OC, TN.. Data were statistically analysed using Coefficient of Variation (CV%), Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with means separated at a 5% level of significance, and the technique based on relative variance (I-RV). Both maps had better predictive accuracy for alluvial soils than well-drained units delineated based on minor relief differences. Despite high within unit variation of properties, map units generally differed significantly at 5% in terms of sand, silt, silt/clay, Al, H, Al+H, ECEC, BS, ESP, OC, K. Predictive accuracies (1-RV) for the parameters ranged from 0.01 for pH to 0.62 for BS. Sand and silt had relatively good predictions at both depths and scales, with values ranging from 0.42 to 0.57. The parameters silt/clay, K, Al, H, ECEC, and Al+H, had better prediction at subsoil with values ranging from 0.26 to 0.58. The manuscript map had improved prediction at the topsoil for Al, H, Al+H, BS, ESP, OC, and TN with values improving from a range of 0.04-0.25 to one of 0.15-0.62. At the subsoil, the same map had improved prediction for silt/clay ratio with values changing from 0.17 to 0.32. Despite being at a small scale too, the manuscript soil map brought out the soil's potential better, which fact makes it a better base map for more detailed mapping of the soils than the published one. The study thus recommends making reference to the manuscript map for further studies.

55 www.wjir.org  Abstract— Land suitability is a function of soil characteristics and crop requirement. It involves the evaluation and grouping of specific areas of land in terms of their suitability for defined agricultural use. Factors such as soil characteristics, climatic condition, topography (terrain), rainfall, erosion etc. Henceforth, matching the land characteristics with the crop requirements provides suitability index in the form of ranks which are fundamental for sustainable agricultural practices. The main objective of the research was focused on GIS techniques for land suitability assessment and subsequently determine physical-chemical-climatic risk (to improve millet yield) in millet production for sustainable farming. This paper presents the land suitability for millet production in Katsina State (Nigeria). A total of fifty-five (55) soil samples were collected at the depth of 0-30cm, air-dried, gently crushed, and sieved through 2mm for soil physical-chemical analy...

A detailed soil survey of 1.03 hectares of land within University of Ado Ekiti Teaching and Research Farm was carried out to evaluate the suitability of the soils for irrigation agriculture and to examine the influence of three different soil types, water and fertilizer rates on the yield of Amaranthus cruentus. All the soils evaluated were considered not suitable for gravity irrigation but soil A was considered highly suitable, soils B and C were considered moderately suitable for drip irrigation respectively. The results showed that soil types greatly influenced Amaranthus yield significantly (P<0.05). Soil A gave the highest total biomass yield (4597.9 kg/ha), followed by soil C (3152.2 kg/ha) and soil B (3111.1 kg/ha). Fertilizer regime based on soil test gave the highest biomass yield of 4051.6 kg/ha followed by the control with 3636.7 kg/ha and lastly the blanket with 3173.9 kg/ha. The study showed that watering the crop daily gave the highest biomass yield of 3703.1 kg/ha followed by once in two days with 3632 kg/ha and twice daily with 3527 kg/ha. This study confirmed that fertilizer recommendations based on soil test is necessary for determining the adequate level of nutrients that could replenish the soil as well as satisfy the need of the crop. The study suggests the use of drip irrigation rather than gravity irrigation in terms of water use.

Background: Manihot esculenta, the most important tropical root crop which supply dietary staple food for about 800 million
populations worldwide. Twenty soil profiles that represent the soil Pedology and soil quality are similar in their concept in
relation to soil formation. In this regards, soil quality can be considered as part of the science of pedology. Significant
differences in yield of Tapioca (Manihot esculenta) with selected soil properties and subsequent interpretations as influenced
by land use are explained.

Methods: Soil samples were taken from designated pedogenic horizons for physico-chemical properties in the laboratory. Soil
textural class, saturated hydraulic conductivity, Cation Exchange Capacity, Base Saturation Percentage, soil organic carbon,
exchangeable cations, available N, P, K content and available micronutrients were analysed. The general fertility of the soils in the
area is discussed highlighting their potentials and constraints.

Result: A comprehensive analysis of soils in the study area showed that shallow soil depth of <47 cm and more clay of 44% with
high bulk density of 1.4 gcc-1, low hydraulic conductivity of 0.12 cmhr-1, low base saturation percentage of 77%, more exchangeable
sodium percentage of 7.96% with low available N, P and K of 110, 10.75 and 142.25 kg ha-1, respectively in low yielding soils are
the major constraints in the tract might behind the yield differences in Cassava.

Ugep is famous for its annual 'New Yam Festival' which gives the people the opportunity to showcase their cultural heritage and agricultural produce. As the farmers attempt to meet-up with this annual-ritual, they continuously cultivate the soil resulting in soil nutrient exhaustion. This study characterized the major soil units in Ugep and focused on the fertility capability classification (FCC) as well as land suitability evaluation for cassava production. With the aid of the geology-and topo-maps, two profile pits were sunk in the soils over alluvium (AL), sandstone (ST) and dolerite (DO) resulting in six profiles. The results present loam, sandy loam and clay loam textures in the surface soils, while bulk density was < 1.8 Mgm-3 and organic carbon, available P and total N recorded 2.0-37.3 g/kg, 1.25-36.12 mg/kg and 0.1-2.1 g/kg, respectively. Exchangeable bases were comparatively higher in DO, with a rating of high for exchangeable Ca 2+ and Mg 2+ , while exchangeable acidity was due to H +. FCC indicated L (loam-surface and subsurface) in AL with limitations due to low K reserve (k), CEC (e), organic carbon (m) and gleying. DO qualified as LC (Loam-surface and clay-subsurface) with limitations of high gravel (r) as well as k, e and m, while ST qualified as SL (sand-surface and loam-subsurface) and L (loam-surface and subsurface) with limitations of k, e and m. By the parametric approach, current and potential aggregate suitability of moderately or highly suitable for ST had less limitations than marginally suitable classifications of AL for cassava production.

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Information on fertility status of compound farms are invaluable for proper management of soils to enhance crop productivity especially in farmlands with different slope gradients. This research aims to assess topsoil's nutrient dynamics of compound farms on upper slopes (CFUS) and lower slopes (CFLS) of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). Since the inception of UNN in 1960, there hasn't been much known about how fertile the soils are in CFUS and CFLS, hence this study. A handheld GPS receiver was used to delineate the campus area into CFUS (458 to 447 m above mean sea level (AMSL)) and CFLS (415 to 423 m AMSL). Twenty compound farms were randomly sampled at 0-20 cm soil depths, ten each from CFUS of Ikejiani and Ezenwaeze areas and CFLS of Mbanefo area. Standard methods were used to analyze the soil samples at the UNN Soil Science Undergraduate Laboratory. Higher values of organic matter, CEC, pH, and exchangeable calcium recoded at CFUS showed that soil fertility status of CFUS was generally higher than CFLS. The CFUS had significantly higher clay and silt contents (p 0.05) than the CFLS, while the lower slope had a higher sand fraction. The results did not follow the typical trends of soil nutrients being transported from upper to lower slope, probably due to anthropogenic activities such as buildings and road constructions between the upper and lower slopes of the campus. Therefore, this result will help compound farmers in both CFLS and CFUS achieve higher crop productivity by adopting efficient management techniques to complement the soils' fertility using both organic and inorganic fertilizers.

The study was carried out to assess the influence of slope and management practices on top-soils fertility status of compound farms in the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) campus, Enugu state Nigeria. Top soil samples (0-20 cm depth) were collected from twenty compound farms, ten each from the upper slopes compound farms (USCFs) in Ikejiani and Ezenwaeze streets and lower slopes compound farms (LSCFs) at Mbanefo Street. The elevation of the USCFs ranged from 458 to 447 m while LSCFs ranged from 415 to 423 m above the mean sea level (amsl). The soil samples were analyzed in the UNN Department of Soil Science Laboratory. The results showed that slopes and management practices influenced top-soils fertility status of compound farms. Slopes affected soil fertility parameters such as organic matter content, total nitrogen, exchangeable calcium, cation exchange capacity, and effective cation exchange capacity. The upper slope compound farms were more fertile relative to the lower slopes compound farms. The combined application of organic and inorganic manures had a greater effect on soil fertility status compared to a single application of organic or inorganic fertilizer. The combined application of organic and inorganic fertilizers should be adopted to enhance soil fertility status of compound farms in both slopes.

This study examined the contributions of organic matter (OM), clay and silt to the effective cation exchange capacity (ECEC) of soils of different land use history, in order to determine the influence of land use on the contributions of the various fractions to the ECEC of the soils. The land use types examined were sole cassava (C), sole pigeon pea (P), mixed cropping of cassava and pigeon pea (C + P), natural fallow land (FA) and forestland (FO). The results showed that in FA and FO, the OM fraction contributed more to the ECEC compared to the other fractions. The contribution of clay was more visible in the legume-based cropping systems, while that of silt was more pronounced in C. The average contribution of OM to ECEC was 54%, while that of silt and clay were 26% and 20%, respectively. Thus the OM fraction gave better predictions of ECEC than the particle size fractions in an Alfisol of southeastern Nigeria. The low contribution of clay to ECEC recorded in this study may be due...

Soil chemical properties and microbial populations were determined in this study in order to compare the contributions of microorganisms to soil fertility in three land use types in an Ultisol of southeastern Nigeria. A total of 27 samples were collected from 0-20 cm depth as follows: 21 samples from a fallow land (3 replicates from 7 plots) that has been under 10-year fallow, three samples from an adjacent forestland and finally, three samples from an adjacent cultivated land owned by a farmer. These samples were air dried, passed through a 2-mm sieve before soil properties were determined following standard methods. Fresh soil samples were used to determine the number of soil microorganisms via the dilution spread plate technique using the nutrient agar for bacteria and potato dextrose agar for fungi. Results showed that the forest and fallow lands had significantly (P < 0.05) lower mean pH value, available P, exchangeable K and Na, but significantly higher exchangeable H and bacteria population than the cultivated land. The mean exchangeable Ca was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the cultivated land than in the fallow land but similar to that from the forestland. The fungi population was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the forestland than in others which are similar statistically. The mean soil organic matter, total N, exchangeable Mg, exchangeable Al and CEC were statistically similar in all the land use types. Contributions of microorganisms to soil fertility were generally more in the uncultivated lands, an indication that tillage operations may have affected the microbial populations. Significant correlations (p < 0.05) obtained between some soil chemical properties and microbial densities signify important roles microorganism play in soil nutrient build up.

1 2., 3 & 4 Department of Geography and Natural Resource Management University of Uyo Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria Phones: 1+234802-303-3114, 2+234803-781-0411; 4+234803-104-9807 Email: 1meansa1@yahoo.com; 2uwemituen@gmail.com; 4udyudofia07@gmail.com ABSTRACT This study examined the suitability of the soil chemical properties in selected communities of Bwari Area Council, FCT, Nigeria for the cultivation of upland rice. The communities which include Igu, Gyeyidna, Kuchiko, Piawe, Dutse, Jikoko, Shere, Piko, Ushafa and Jigo, were selected as non-contiguous pair from five geographical wards (Igu, kuduru, Dutse, Shere and Ushafa) in the Area Council. They were purposively selected using the criteria of 500 metres and above elevation (upland condition) and agricultural preponderance. The soil samples were collected from farmland in each of the communities using systematic sampling techniques, which involved measuring out a 100 by 100 metres quadrat and dividing it into sixteen equal gr...

Three pedons developed on basaltic parent materials on the Biu Plateau in the semi-arid region of Nigeria were characterized and classified. Soil pH values ranged from 6•0 to 6•6 and increased slightly with increase in profile depth. The clay content was generally above 40% and the slit fraction ranged from 20 to 34%. Exchangeable bases were high and values for exchangeable acidity did not exceed 0•20 cmol(+) kg-1. The NH 4 OAc-CEC, effective CEC, and base saturation (NH 4 OAc-CEC) were moderately high, while base saturation by effective CEC method was high with all values above 90%. Organic C content of the surface soils was medium, but the soils were deficient in N, P and S. The pedons were classified as Typic Haplustalfs (Haplic Alisol and Chromic Luvisol) and as Ustic Dystropept (Chromic Cambisol). The agricultural potentials of the soils were considered to be favourable, although constrained by N, P and S deficiencies.

The study was carried out to assess the fertility and productivity potentials of selected soils of Evite Otu, Aguleri in Anambra East LGA of Anambra State, with a view to making adequate management practices for sustainable crop production in the area. Three mapping units were delineated using the transect method of soil survey. The properties of the surface soil of the units were examined for fertility status while the profile characteristics assessed for productivity potentials for the cultivation of sweet potatoes, cassava, cowpea and lowland rice. Results obtained across the mapping units showed low sand (<53%) and high silt (>26%) fractions with irregular distribution down the depth. Soil reaction varied from very strongly (4.50-5.00) to strongly (5.10-5.40) acid conditions. Percent organic carbon was generally high (> 1.6 %). Total nitrogen, available phosphorus and exchangeable potassium values were generally moderate. The productivity of mapping unit 1 was limited by imperfectly drained condition (w) and thus, currently marginally suitable (S3) for the cultivation of sweet potatoes, cassava and cowpea but moderately suitable (S2) for lowland rice cultivation. The optimal performance of mapping unit 2 was constrained by fertility (f) thus, currently moderately suitable (S2) for the cultivation of sweet potatoes, cassava and cowpea but marginally suitable (S3) for lowland rice cultivation. Mapping unit 3 was highly suitable (S1) for sweet potatoes; moderate (S2) for cassava; and marginal (S3) for cowpea and lowland rice cultivation. Adequate drainage, liming, application of appropriate fertilizers and suitable soil management would enhance optimal productivity of the land for the crops.

Characterization and fertility capability classification of soils of a floodplain in Osun State, Nigeriawere carried out. Soil samples from horizons of identified mapping units were analyzed for theirproperties. Soils were grouped based on their fertility capabilities. Soil texture ranged from sandyloam to sandy clay loam in the upper and mid basins while the basin floor was sandy loam. The soilswere slightly to strongly acidic, organic matter content ranged from low to high, available phosphoruswas low, while the exchangeable bases were high. The soils were characterized by the fertilityindicators: Lhkig for upper basin, Lir++g for mid basin and Lkig for basin floor. The agronomicconstraints of the soils include high acidity, low P content, low nutrient reserve, gravelly condition andgleying. Sustainable management of the soils would require efficient soil management systems througheffective drainage, liming and fertilization with the use of bed and mound

1 2., 3 & 4 Department of Geography and Natural Resource Management University of Uyo Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria Phones: 1+234802-303-3114, 2+234803-781-0411; 4+234803-104-9807 Email: 1meansa1@yahoo.com; 2uwemituen@gmail.com; 4udyudofia07@gmail.com ABSTRACT This study examined the suitability of the soil chemical properties in selected communities of Bwari Area Council, FCT, Nigeria for the cultivation of upland rice. The communities which include Igu, Gyeyidna, Kuchiko, Piawe, Dutse, Jikoko, Shere, Piko, Ushafa and Jigo, were selected as non-contiguous pair from five geographical wards (Igu, kuduru, Dutse, Shere and Ushafa) in the Area Council. They were purposively selected using the criteria of 500 metres and above elevation (upland condition) and agricultural preponderance. The soil samples were collected from farmland in each of the communities using systematic sampling techniques, which involved measuring out a 100 by 100 metres quadrat and dividing it into sixteen equal gr...

The need for sustainable rice production in Nigeria cannot be overemphasized. Since rice can be grown both under rain-fed and irrigated conditions, the need for soil suitability evaluation becomes very necessary in order for supply to meet up with demand. Six land qualities viz; climate, soil physical properties, drainage, fertility status, workability and erosion were matched with irrigated rice land use requirements. The current suitability evaluation of Tomas irrigation scheme for irrigated rice, using the nonparametric method indicates that all the mapping units fall into the marginally suitable (S3fs) class, with low fertility status and coarse sandy texture as major limitations. The parametric method reveals that all the mapping units had an index of current productivity (IPC) of 5.63 (N2) which is permanently not suitable. Tomas irrigation scheme was found to be potentially moderately suitable (S2) for irrigated rice production using non-parametric method after the soil fertility status was amended.

Soil, as a natural and nonrenewable resource become the most fragile ecosystem due to long-term cultivation by human being. The knowledge and understanding the parameters that determine the quality of agricultural soils can improve their management of soil resources. Geo-informatics techniques have emerged for the assessment, mapping and modelling of various soil resources. Hence, an attempt has made to study the soils of Sohag Governorate and generate fertility capability classification (FCC) map using geo-informatics. Different remote sensing data such as Landsat 9 imageries and ASTER sensor integrated. Consequently, representative soil profiles chosen and samples collected for analyzing. The results indicated that the main landforms observed were Nile Alluvium (NA), Low recent river terraces (LR), High recent river terraces (HR) and Wadi Bottom (WB). Soil fertility limitations and condition modifiers characterizing different units were identified. The fertility of the NA and LR soils was good with fewer limitations. Whereas, both HR and WB soils have many limitations that render them under either poor or very poor fertility capability. Generally, this information is valuable for decision-makers and land managers to make informed decisions about soil conservation and management.

The study was to assess the Influence of Seasons on soil properties under oil palm cultivation in a coastal plain sands area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Four locations with the same parent material were identified; oil palm block of 57 years (B-57), 39 years (B-39) and 17 years (B-17) and a no oil palm block (B-0) as control. Three pits were sunk in each location and soil samples collected for both dry season and wet season. The result from the laboratory and statistical analysis showed that 32.3 %, 38.7 %, 29 % and 29 % of the soil properties were significantly (p< 0.05) higher in the dry season compared to the wet season, while 6.5%, 6.5%, 12.9 % and 19.4 % of the soil properties were significantly (p< 0.05) higher in the wet season than in the dry season in B-0, B-17, B-39 and B-57 respectively. Generally, particle sizes were not significantly different in the two seasons of all the blocks, whereas many of the soil chemical properties significantly changed with change in seasons. Therefore, taking the season and existing cropping system into consideration when soil quality assessment is carried out will produce a more realistic and reliable result.

Soils on coastal plain sands of southeastern Nigeria have hitherto been referred to as fragile sandy and acidic soils of low base saturation, cation exchange capacity (CEC) and fertility, as evidenced by the extensive land degradation evident in the region. This underscores the need for the characterization of the soils for sustainable use. Three profile pits were therefore dug on the upper, middle and bottom slopes of three towns in the rainforest belt underlain by the coastal plain sands. The results showed that the topsoil of the soils was  generally sandy, with relatively more clayey subsoil. The pH ranged from extremely acidic (&lt; 4.4) to slightly acidic (6.1- 6.5). They had low organic matter, low total nitrogen, low effective CEC, low Al saturation and moderate base saturation. The soils of the upper and the middle slopes were classified as Arenic Kandiudult by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Soil Taxonomy or as Chromic Acrisols by the World Reference B...

The objective of the research was to determine the effect of different tillage methods on some soil physicochemical properties in Niger Delta University Teaching and Research Farms. The land was divided into plots measuring 5 x 5 m with three replicates per treatment. Five tillage treatments considered were: No Till, hoeing, digging, hoeing + digging once, and hoeing + digging twice. Two samples were collected per plot at 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm depth. A total number of thirty (30) samples were collected from the field. The research was laid out using the Randomized Complete Block Design. Results showed that the tillage methods had no significant effect on the soil's chemical properties but influenced the physical. Mean pH across all plots ranged from 4.42-4.49 indicating strongly acidic state, electrical conductivity ranged 65.67-82 dS m-1 indicating no salinity stress, detrimental to crops; organic carbon and organic matter were moderate with a range of 18.52-21.55 g kg-1 and 37.03-43.10 g kg-1 respectively. Total nitrogen was at its moderate range of 7.88-12.17 g kg-1. Exchangeable acidity was low with a range of 1.52-1.71 cmol kg-1. The tillage methods influenced soil bulk density and porosity; the highest bulk density was recorded in the NT zone (1.18 g cm-3) which decreased steadily with an increase in tillage intensity. With the hoe+digging (twice) recording the lowest value of 0.94 g cm-3. Similarly, the highest porosity value was found in the tillage method with the lowest bulk density value (0.94 g cm-3 : 64.7%), while the lowest was observed in the tillage method with the highest bulk density value (1.18 g cm-3 : 55.7%). pH had positive correlation (P<0.05) with electrical conductivity (r=0.62), organic carbon (r=0.94), organic matter (r=0.90), and negative correlation with exchangeable acidity (r=-0.52). Organic carbon had strong positive correlation with organic matter (r=0.99), effective cation exchange capacity (r=0.69), clay (r=0.50), and total nitrogen (r=0.61). Silt (r=0.74) and clay (r=0.70) showed positive relationship with bulk density, while bulk density (r=-0.99) showed strong negative correlation with porosity. It is therefore recommended that crude tillage methods be used for sustainable and conservative agriculture.

To promote effective oil palm plantation and environmental sustainability, this research assessed influence of climatic parameters on physicochemical properties of ai acid sulfate soils (ASSs). ASSs under oil palm planting areas (Topsoil: Ap, Subsoil-1: Ap-60 cm, Subsoil-2: 60-100 cm, and Rootzone: sum of the three depth levels) and historical climate data in tropical savanna and tropical monsoon were investigated. Stepwise approach of multiple regression analysis from component defining variable of principal component analysis revealed that, in tropical savanna, daily solar radiation influenced clay content (p < 0.05) in Topsoil, cation exchange capacity (p < 0.05) in Subsoil-1, soil pH by water (p < 0.01) in Subsoil-2, and silt content (p < 0.001) in Rootzone. In tropical monsoon, daily solar radiation influenced exchangeable magnesium (p < 0.01) in Subsoil-2, and exchangeable sodium (p < 0.01) and silt content (p < 0.01) in Rootzone. We concluded that daily solar radiation is the most influential climatic parameter on soil properties due to the transport of heat in soils, whereas particle size distribution is mostly influenced by climatic parameters due to their clay and silt fractions. OPP in ASSs under these climates should include management of water usage by using raised beds with irrigation canals, considering the rooting depth and depth of acidic horizon before applying fertilizer or amendment and liming along with integrated organic material management to raise soil pH.

During the Collaborative Study of Cassava in Africa (COSCA) survey, cassava yields and soil samples were obtained from farmers&#39; fields in order to assess the yield levels and the contributions of soil properties to variations in such yield parameters as fresh root and shoot, harvest index and stand density. The average root yield was estimated as 10.5 t/ha, harvest index averaged about 0.50 and stand density was about 64,000 per hectare. Both the root and stand density had coefficients of variation above 150%. Each of the yield parameters correlated with at least 13 of the 28 soil properties considered in the simple correlation analysis carried out. The variations in the yield parameters were attributed to the differences in such agro-ecological factors as climate, altitude and soil properties. The contribution of soil variables to the variations in all the yield parameters was more than 80% in all cases. The most important variables were N:P ratio for root yield, clay content f...

1 2., 3 & 4 Department of Geography and Natural Resource Management University of Uyo Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria Phones: 1+234802-303-3114, 2+234803-781-0411; 4+234803-104-9807 Email: 1meansa1@yahoo.com; 2uwemituen@gmail.com; 4udyudofia07@gmail.com ABSTRACT This study examined the suitability of the soil chemical properties in selected communities of Bwari Area Council, FCT, Nigeria for the cultivation of upland rice. The communities which include Igu, Gyeyidna, Kuchiko, Piawe, Dutse, Jikoko, Shere, Piko, Ushafa and Jigo, were selected as non-contiguous pair from five geographical wards (Igu, kuduru, Dutse, Shere and Ushafa) in the Area Council. They were purposively selected using the criteria of 500 metres and above elevation (upland condition) and agricultural preponderance. The soil samples were collected from farmland in each of the communities using systematic sampling techniques, which involved measuring out a 100 by 100 metres quadrat and dividing it into sixteen equal gr...

Soil resource illiteracy and a weak link between agricultural research and farmers are major problems limiting agricultural development in Nigeria. Pedologists provide interpretative soil maps (land capability classification and soil fertility maps) that will enable potential land users to appreciate the advantages and limitations of the soil resource base that is utilized for agricultural production. Such maps are visual aids to facilitate effective communication between extensionists and farmers, in an effort to (1) adopt appropriate land and agronomic management practices, (2) increase productivity and (3) enhance the efficiency of resource use in agricultural production. This approach was illustrated using Ikwuano Local Government Area (LGA) of Abia State, Nigeria, as a case study.

Machine learning has experienced notable advancements in recent times. Furthermore, this field facilitates the automation of human evaluation and processing, leading to a reduced demand for manual labor. This research paper employs data mining techniques and Knowledge Discovery in Databases (KDD) to conduct an evaluation and classification of various algorithms for pattern extraction and soil suitability prediction. The study utilizes experimental data, data transformation, and pattern extraction techniques on diverse soil samples obtained from different regions of Negros Occidental, Philippines. Specifically, the Naive Bayes, Deep Learning, Decision Tree, and Random Forest algorithms are selected for the classification and prediction of soil suitability based on the available datasets. The assessment of soil-crop suitability is based on data sourced from the Philippine Rice Research Institute, considering 14 parameters including inherent fertility, soil pH, organic matter, phosphor...

A detailed soil survey was conducted in four locations of Mid-Benue Valley (Central Niger-Benue Trough) namely: Dura Floodplain (DR), Dogo, Katsina-Ala River Bank (DG), Mu River Basin (MU) and University of Agriculture Makurdi Teaching and Research Farm (UAM) all in Benue state. The area is located within Latitude 7 o 23' and 07 o 44'N and Longitude 008 o 9'E and 009 o 12'E covering an estimated area of 3250 km 2. The aim was to evaluate the suitability of the soils for the production of maize and to have a detailed soil data base for effective land use planning. Critical land and soil requirements for maize were collected from past research works and compared with data obtained from field survey. The result showed that the upper horizons of pedons ranged from clay loam to sandy loam; DR1 and MU1 have clay loam which is optimal for maize cultivation. The pH was moderate acid, 5.48 to 5.95. The organic carbon content of the soil was highest in the surface horizons (0.45-1.63 %) and decreases down the profile with least values for UAM1 and UAM11 (0.19-0.45 %). The available Phosphorus, Exchangeable bases and CEC were generally low. Although land characteristics such as mean annual rainfall and temperature, relative humidity, topography, coarse fragments and base saturation were not major limitations to the production of maize, there was no highly suitable (S1) land for maize cultivation in the area. Sites DG1 (Dogo 1) and UAM1 (University of Agriculture Makurdi 1) were marginally suitable (S3tf) due to topography limitations; the lowlands of MU1 (MU1) with the depression land of DR1 (Dura 1) were marginally suitable (S3wf) due to flooding limitation and low nutrients levels while the midland of UAM11 (University of Agriculture Makurdi 11) was as well limited by its imperfect drainage into marginally suitable (S3wf) subclass for maize production. Thus, the lowland soils (DR/MU) were generally limited by wetness while the uplands (DG/UAM) were limited by their textural arrangements. To raise the productivity level of both lands for optimal maize production, management techniques such as continuous organic matter incorporation and mineral fertilizers application (to adjust the textures and boast fertility levels in the uplands), and efficient of use of mineral fertilizers with low levels of chemical inputs with adaption of appropriate irrigation techniques (in lowlands) would make dry season farming sustainable.

All thanks goes to Almighty Allah (SWT) who gave me the opportunity, wisdom, knowledge and health to undertake this work. I wish to acknowledge my supervisors Dr. B. Abdulkarim and Dr. A.K. Usman. They have really tried for me despite all the tight schedules. I equally acknowledge the contribution of my teachers and colleagues at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria whom supported in the data collection and analysis which includes Mr.

Two pedons located on the Experimental Farms of the Federal University of Technology (EF) and Maizube Farms (MF) all around Minna were studied. The result indicated that the pedons had surface texture of sandy loam and sandy clay loam respectively overlaying fine textured subsoil. In the same order, the sand content ranged from 529 to 794 g kg -1 and 417 to 597 g kg -1 and decreased with soil depth. Silt ranged from 55 to 105 g kg -1 and 104 to 154 g kg-1 and was irregularly distributed within the profiles. Clay ranged from 116 to 386 g kg-1 and 269 to 449 g kg-1 and unlike sand, it increased down the profiles. Both pedons were imperfectly drained and had plinthites in their subsurface. The pH ranged from 5.5 to 6.5 and 6.0 to 7.2. Organic C and TN were rated high in EF with values of 16.76 g kg -1 and 0.37 g kg -1 and medium in MF with values of 10.68 g kg -1 and 0.17 g kg -1 respectively. Also, available P was 11 and 8 mg kg-1 and was rated medium in both soils. The average ECEC v...

Sugarcane is an energy crop with great economic potentials. Information on soil evaluation for sugarcane in central Nigeria is very scanty. This study was carried out to evaluate the suitability of some soils of the floodplains in central Nigeria for sugarcane cultivation. A semi-detailed soil survey was carried out on 18,500 hectares of land straddling the floodplains of Rivers Niger and Benue in Korton-Karfe Local Government Area of Kogi State. Land resource survey was carried out using a 500 m×500 m grid pattern. Identified soil types were further examined with standard soil profiles. Samples were collected from the soil genetic horizons as well as surface (0–30 cm) soils at selected sampling points for fertility analysis. Parametric and non-parametric suitability evaluation methods were used to relate land qualities with land use requirements for commercial sugarcane cultivation. Relationships between evaluation methods were assessed using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient...

The flood plain of Awe in Southern Guinea Savannah Zone of Nigeria was studied for rice production. The physical, morphological and chemical properties of the soils were matched with the requirements of the rice production and the overall suitability rating of the soils was obtained using limitation method. The soils were deep (101cm – 170cm) and well drained, poorly to very poorly drained. The soils were fine textured and strongly to moderately acidic and slightly alkaline in reaction (pH 5.10 – 7.15). The percentage sand fraction ranged from 44.8% to 83.1%; silt 5.4% to 9.4% and clay 9.4% to 46.7%. They had low to moderate organic carbon (0.41% to 3.52%); total N (0.04% to 0.11%); available P (1.64mglkg-1 to 3.72mg/kg-1), total exchangeable bases (2.85cmol/kg-1 to 7.97cmol/kg-1), CEC (4.10cmol/kg-1 to 7.98cmol/kg-1), base saturation (65% to 97.5%) and Fe2+ (1.10 to 2.11). Soils of the three flood levels (toeslope or deep swamp, medium or lower slope, levee or shallow swamp) were r...

This study was carried out to evaluate the variations and suitability of some soils located within the University of Ibadan for their current land uses. Six soil types were selected and profiled based on their current land use types which are paddock, forest, cassava, fallow land, maize/vegetable and oil palm plantation. The morphological properties of the soils were examined in standard soil profiles. Samples were collected from the surface (0-15 cm) and from each pedogenic horizon of the profiles for laboratory analysis. Suitability evaluation was carried out using land use requirements and factor rating for each of the land use types following parametric and non-parametric methods. The soils were classified at Series level as Olorunda (Typic Kanhaplustalf), Makun (Plinthic Haplustalf), Iwo (Typic Kandiustalf), Mamu (Plinthic Kandiustalf), Adio (Aquic Udifluvent) and Matako (Fluventic Haplustept). The evaluation methods used revealed that Olorunda and Mamu series currently used as paddock and fallow land, respectively, are highly suitable (S1) for cassava production while Makun and Iwo series currently used as forest and cassava, respectively, are moderately and marginally suitable (S3) for cassava production but highly suitable (S1) for maize production. However, Adio and Matako series currently used for maize cultivation are best suited as a forested area due to drainage problems. The common constraints to current land use types are soil fertility, climate, drainage and topography. This study revealed that current land use types are sometimes not the best suited in terms of land potentials which calls for proper land evaluation for any area that would be used for agricultural purposes in the future.

Sugarcane is an energy crop with great economic potentials. Information on soil evaluation for sugarcane in central Nigeria is very scanty. This study was carried out to evaluate the suitability of some soils of the floodplains in central Nigeria for sugarcane cultivation. A semi-detailed soil survey was carried out on 18,500 hectares of land straddling the floodplains of Rivers Niger and Benue in Korton-Karfe Local Government Area of Kogi State. Land resource survey was carried out using a 500 m×500 m grid pattern. Identified soil types were further examined with standard soil profiles. Samples were collected from the soil genetic horizons as well as surface (0-30 cm) soils at selected sampling points for fertility analysis. Parametric and non-parametric suitability evaluation methods were used to relate land qualities with land use requirements for commercial sugarcane cultivation. Relationships between evaluation methods were assessed using Spearman's rank correlation coefficients. Nine soil mapping units were identified in the study areas which were mainly Inceptisols (55.4%) and Alfisols (22.5%) which correlates with Fluvisols (40.4%), Cambisols (15.1%) and Lixisols (22.5%) in the World Reference Base (WRB) classification system. The evaluation methods used revealed that 0%, 4.95%, 49.48%, 23.55% of the soils were highly suitable (S1), moderately suitable (S2), marginally suitable (S3) and not suitable (N) for sugarcane cultivation, respectively. Potentially, 0%, 9.52%, 44.91% and 23.55% of the soils were found to be highly suitable (S1), moderately suitable (S2), marginally suitable (S3) and not suitable (N) for sugarcane cultivation, respectively. The soils were strongly limited by low soil nutrient availability, soil acidity and flood hazard. Soil management practices such as application of organic manures, fertiliser and liming could be adopted to ameliorate the soil acidity and supply deficient nutrients while land development strategies such as drainage, flood control and possibly sub-soiling would mitigate other major limitations to sugarcane cultivation.

Agriculture is the backbone of Kenya’s economy. Agriculture in Kenya is characterized by low productivity due to low external inputs, lack of good farming practices, soil erosion, and other losses. In most farming regions of the country, agriculture depends entirely on rainfall which sometimes is scarce. The problem of selecting the correct land for the cultivation of certain crops is a long-standing and mainly empirical issue. The objective of this study is to extrapolate and generate a crop suitability map showing areas suitable for agricultural activities in Taita Hills in Kenya. It utilizes the information on environmental condition, altitude, rainfall and other relevant parameters of the case study where the variability of rainfall and recurrent droughts have a great impact on the lives of people whose livelihood is mainly dependent on subsistence agriculture. The methods used include development of elevation models, watershed mapping, climate variability mapping, soil erosion ...

Machine learning has experienced notable advancements in recent times. Furthermore, this field facilitates the automation of human evaluation and processing, leading to a reduced demand for manual labor. This research paper employs data mining techniques and Knowledge Discovery in Databases (KDD) to conduct an evaluation and classification of various algorithms for pattern extraction and soil suitability prediction. The study utilizes experimental data, data transformation, and pattern extraction techniques on diverse soil samples obtained from different regions of Negros Occidental, Philippines. Specifically, the Naive Bayes, Deep Learning, Decision Tree, and Random Forest algorithms are selected for the classification and prediction of soil suitability based on the available datasets. The assessment of soil-crop suitability is based on data sourced from the Philippine Rice Research Institute, considering 14 parameters including inherent fertility, soil pH, organic matter, phosphor...

Studies were carried out on Alagba series in the humid agro ecolocological zone of Nigeria to evaluate their productivity on the basis of their physicochemical properties. Soil constraints inherent in the soils which negatively impact on their productivity were scientifically identified. Thereafter, appropriate measures to ameliorate the constraints were proffered in order to enhance the productivity of the soils. Among the constraints identified were soil acidification, low effective cation exchange capacity and susceptibility to erosion due to the clayey texture throughout the profile. This kind of texture not only made the soils less productive for deep rooted crops but also caused difficulties in harvesting. Liming and the use of acid-tolerant species were appropriate measures to ameliorate the acidity constraints, while incorporation of organic materials into the soils in combination with liming were the appropriate measures to enhance the effective cation exchange capacity. Erosion control and maintenance of surface cover were to be given high priority, while tillage should be limited to only when soil was drier than the plastic limit. Soil organic carbon should be maintained or increased due to its role in many important soil properties that have a bearing on soil productivity.

Sugarcane is an energy crop with great economic potentials. Information on soil evaluation for sugarcane in central Nigeria is very scanty. This study was carried out to evaluate the suitability of some soils of the floodplains in central Nigeria for sugarcane cultivation. A semi-detailed soil survey was carried out on 18,500 hectares of land straddling the floodplains of Rivers Niger and Benue in Korton-Karfe Local Government Area of Kogi State. Land resource survey was carried out using a 500 m×500 m grid pattern. Identified soil types were further examined with standard soil profiles. Samples were collected from the soil genetic horizons as well as surface (0–30 cm) soils at selected sampling points for fertility analysis. Parametric and non-parametric suitability evaluation methods were used to relate land qualities with land use requirements for commercial sugarcane cultivation. Relationships between evaluation methods were assessed using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient...

Background: In derived savanna ecology, the evaluation of soil characteristics for the current and future capability and suitability for crop production is crucial. Therefore, studies were conducted to evaluate the capability and suitability of plinthic soil of a derived savannah ecology of Nigeria for sustainable crop production. Methods: The methodology was essentially Grid using hand-held GPS to determine the coordinates of sampling points for the collection of soil samples. In all, 18 profile pit samples were collected. The profile pits were described morphologically on the field using the FAO guideline on soil profile description. From the various horizons of these profile pits, soil samples were collected. Results: Land assessment indicates that the soils of the area are very fragile and inherently low in nutrients. Mapping unit A is moderately suitable for arable crop production while Units B and C are fairly suitable. For agricultural activities, mapping unit D is marginal f...

The two widely used methods base on the sedimentation principle (Bouyoucos hydrometer and International pipette) for particle-size analysis were comparatively evaluated on soils collected from various locations in Sudan savanna of Nigeria particularly from Sokoto and Zamfara States. The hydrometer method under-estimated the silt and over-estimated the clay content. Also, the hydrometer reading proved difficult and tended to submerge when floated for clay reading in the suspension of very sandy soils (900g kg-1 sand). Furthermore, the results from the two methods were validated by subjecting the data to USDA soil textural triangle to determine their textural class names. The outcome was that 91.67 % of the experimental soils retained the same textural class names irrespective of the method. Thus, Bouyoucos hydrometer method may conveniently find a place in routine work in view of its simplicity, rapidity, and strong correlation with the pipette method.

The study was carried out to assess the influence of slope and management practices on top-soils fertility status of compound farms in the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) campus, Enugu state Nigeria. Top soil samples (0-20 cm depth) were collected from twenty compound farms, ten each from the upper slopes compound farms (USCFs) in Ikejiani and Ezenwaeze streets and lower slopes compound farms (LSCFs) at Mbanefo Street. The elevation of the USCFs ranged from 458 to 447 m while LSCFs ranged from 415 to 423 m above the mean sea level (amsl). The soil samples were analyzed in the UNN Department of Soil Science Laboratory. The results showed that slopes and management practices influenced top-soils fertility status of compound farms. Slopes affected soil fertility parameters such as organic matter content, total nitrogen, exchangeable calcium, cation exchange capacity, and effective cation exchange capacity. The upper slope compound farms were more fertile relative to the lower slopes compound farms. The combined application of organic and inorganic manures had a greater effect on soil fertility status compared to a single application of organic or inorganic fertilizer. The combined application of organic and inorganic fertilizers should be adopted to enhance soil fertility status of compound farms in both slopes.

Despite the growing interest in irrigated agriculture in Malinyi District in Morogoro Region, its practice in Kilosa kwa Mpepo traditional irrigation scheme remains low in production and productivity compared with medium to modern irrigated agriculture. Since construction of medium to modern irrigated agriculture is expensive, matching crop requirement with resources available through land suitability evaluation is necessary to improve production and productivity in the area. Such important study however,ha.s not been undertaken in Kilosa kwa Mpepo traditional irrigation scheme proposed for modernization. This study, evaluates the land suitability of Kilosa kwa Mpepo traditional irrigation scheme for rice (Oryza sativa L.) and maize (Zea mays L.) cropping systems using FAO maximum limitation method. After matching land qualities with land use requirements, results indicated that soil wetness, soil physical characteristics, and soil fertility status were the major limiting factors affecting land quality within the proposed irrigation scheme. Results also showed that of the total area surveyed (i.e. 1,117 Ha) 25% was rated as highly suitable (S1), 37% as moderately suitable (S2) and 37% as marginally suitable (S3) for irrigated rice based cropping systems. However, after controlling floods the highly suitable (S1) to marginally suitable (S3) land observed was to a large extent related to soil physical property, leading to inadequate capacity to retain nutrients. Similarly, results of land suitability for irrigated maize based cropping systems indicated that of the total study area, 37% was rated as highly suitable (S1) and 63% as moderately suitable (S2). The moderately suitable land in the surveyed area was related to soil physical property and poor soil fertility status (i.e. texture and low pH). Taken together, these data suggest that well-designed irrigation infrastructures along with flood protection band and drainage structures may control and or reduce the incidence of floods and waterlogging conditions in the study area. Long-term fertility management requires consideration of use of organic materials such as manure and compost. Such programs need to maximize use efficiency and minimize environmental losses. Implementation of the proposed approach to optimizing land management will reverse the suitability of land from marginally suitable to highly suitable land thus delivering a range of socioeconomic and agro-environmental benefits to the farmers in Kilosa kwa Mpepo village in Malinyi District

Evaluation of land resources is essential in order to know the potentials and help in identifying the areas suitable for agricultural use and information on soils and their properties have a great value for judging suitability for its uses. It has long been recognized that land suitability is assessed as part of a 'rational' cropping system (FAO, 1976) and optimizing the use of a piece of land for a specified use (Sys et al., 1991a,b)

This study was conducted to evaluate the soil fertility status of an undulating topography of a young rubber plantation located at Ikot-Ukpora, Biase Local Government Area of Cross Rivers State and its implication for rubber cultivation. The result showed that the soils of the area ranged from loamy sand to sandy loam on the surface overlying a slightly heavier textured subsoil ranging from sandy loam to sandy clay loam. Most areas of the soils studied have gravely layers less than 100 cm from the surface leading to a matured plantation in the area to adopt a survival mechanism of curly tap root geometry with preponderance of extensive lateral root system that compensates for the tap root. The soils were slightly acidic and low in most essential nutrients. Total N, P and ECEC were generally low. Fertilizer recommendations were made for the different stages of rubber growth while other management strategies were suggested aimed at reducing organic matter losses and minimizing soil erosion as well as control of termite infestation.

Sustainable crop production and protection of soil resources requires a proper understanding of the soil resources and limitations as well as allocation of land units to uses that are not adversely affected by the limitations posed by the land area. This study was carried out to evaluate some soils of the floodplains near the confluence area of River Niger in Central Nigeria using the Fertility Capability Classification (FCC) approach. Nine soil types identified in a land area covering a total of 18,750 ha of land straddling the floodplains of River Niger and Benue in Kogi State, Central Nigeria were characterized and classified using the USDA soil taxonomy and World Reference Base (WRB) Soil classification methods. The FCC system was used to evaluate the soils based on physical and chemical fertility constraints and limitations for general arable cropping. The starata and sub-starata types of the soils comprised mainly of Loamy topsoils with three of the pedons showing clayey starata types. Classification of the soils into various FCC units reveals that over 80% of the soils are arable with only one soil type-Leptic Cambisol with FCC unit LR +++ being non arable due to serious limitations of rock outcrops and very high gravel contents. Most of the soils could be effectively utilized for massive production of the common arable crops in the area if the appropriate tillage, soil fertility and land management strategies are applied.

The physical characteristics of soils to a large extent influences soil productivity.  The objective of this study therefore is to evaluate the physical characteristics of soils derived from basement complex rocks of the Jos Plateau. According to the methodology outlined in the Soil Survey manual, the stratification of the study region into three geologic units—granite gneiss, biotite granite, and migmatite—was the first step in the soil research process. Additionally, soil samples were collected from genetic strata and soil profile pits were dug in each of these geologic units. Following standard procedure soils were analyzed for color, particles size distribution, structure, and bulk density. Results indicated that physical soil characteristics over the geologic units studied were in most cases similar. However significant differences were observed in particle size distribution in the A-horizons. Clay content in the A horizon of these soils generally ranged from a minimum of 8% to...

The objectives of this research were to investigate the nature of pH buffer capacity and evaluate its association selected soil characteristics the study area.  Soil samples from ten profile pits from within the study area were collected from genetic horizons. Soil samples were tested in the laboratory for electrical conductivity and pH buffer capacity using standard procedures. Soil data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. One-way analysis of variance and correlation analysis were applied to determine effects and relationships of selected soil properties with soil pH buffer capacity. The selected soil properties included particle size distribution, electrical conductivity, organic matter, cation exchange capacity and soil pH. Analysis of variance indicated that there were no significant effect of soil depth or drainage condition on distribution of pH buffer capacity in the study area. Correlation analysis indicated a non-significant weak relationship between pH buffer capac...