Characterization & suitability evaluation of different land uses

Soil is a vital resource for producing the food and fiber needed to support an increasing world population, therefore, characterizing and evaluation of the soil for suitability purpose for desired crops cannot be over emphasized. At the onset, a detailed soil survey was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farms of FUNAAB. Following observed soil variations, surface (0-15cm) and sub-surface (15-30 cm) soil samples were taken viz: Arboretum, Cashew, Oil palm (OP) and Fallow. Modal profile pits were dug, described and sampled following standard guidelines. These samples were subjected to physical and chemical analyses. The results showed that Arboretum, OP and Fallow unlike Cashew had no significant (p<0.05) effect on BD, while TN was moderate (0.22% - 0.16%) in all the land uses. Phosphorus levels were low in all the land uses and not significantly different except in Cashew and OP. Potassium was high (2.45 cmol/kg) and significantly different in Arboretum but low (0.01cmol/kg) in Cashew and OP land use categories.