Fertility Evaluation of Selected Top Soils for Crop Production in Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

The soil resource of a nation is finite and its natural quality cannot be exchanged. However, maintenance of the good quality soil resource at a high level to support agricultural production is a key to poverty eradication and environmental sustainability. The study assesses the fertility status of selected surface soils in Ondo State of Nigeria with a view to making recommendations for sustainable crop production. Examination of the attributes of soils of the area was carried out and their potentials assessed for crop production in twelve selected locations (Ose, Ago-Ajayi, Ikun 1, Ikun 2, Iwaro, Oka. Akungba, Oyinmo, Agbanimu, Aiyegunle, Araromi and Ago-Fulani. Composite soil samples were collected at the depth of 0 - 20 cm across the selected locations in the area and analysed. Results of the analyses showed that surface soil textures ranged between sandy loam and sandy clay loam. Soil reaction varied from slightly acidic to neutral (6.66 - 7.09). Percent organic carbon was low to moderate (0.43 – 1.61%). Total nitrogen was generally moderately low to medium while available phosphorus ranged from low to medium. Exchangeable bases were generally low except the potassium content that was high in soils of Ose and Oka. The cation exchange capacity (CEC) and percent base saturation were generally low across the locations. The results generally revealed low nutrient status of the soils.