Donnish Journal of Agricultural Research

May 2015 Vol. 2(4), pp. 033-036

Copyright © 2015 Donnish Journals

Original Research Article

Soil Fertility Status of the Research Farm of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria.

Ibrahim, M.M* and Idoga, S.

Department of Soil Science, University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Nigeria.

Corresponding Author E-mail: scholarmusty@yahoo.com

Accepted 10th May, 2015.

Abstract

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The current fertility status of the soils of the research farm of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State (Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme farm unit) was assessed by analysing the physical and chemical properties of soils at depths of 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm in the laboratory. Results for soil physical properties indicated that the soils had a predominant sandy loam texture. The bulk densities of the soils were low and increased with depth with a low total porosity. For chemical properties, the soils were moderately to slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.56-6.17. The Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), available P, Ca and total N were low at both depths. CEC and total N decreased with depth. Exchangeable K was very low while Mg and Na were moderate at both depths. The % base saturation ranged from high to very high. The soils were low in fertility and need the adoption of proper management in terms of organic and inorganic fertilizer application to resuscitate and sustain the soil fertility. Adequate monitoring of the fertility status of the farm should also be carried out at regular intervals.

Keywords: Physical and chemical properties, Fertility.

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Cite This Article:

Ibrahim, M.M and Idoga, S. Soil Fertility Status of the Research Farm of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria. Donnish Journal of Agricultural Research 2(4) 2015 pp. 033-036.