EVALUATION OF SELECTED FADAMA SOILS IN KATCHA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF NIGER STATE FOR ARABLE CROPPING

Abstract

Fadama ecosystems have potential for all season agricultural production thereby enhancing food security for the country. This study was carried out to evaluate the soils of three fadama sites, Katcha, Gbakogi and Kashe in Katcha Local Government Area of Niger-State, Nigeria, for arable cropping using the Fertility Capability Classification (FCC) system. Sand was the dominant fraction in all the soils. The silt/clay ratios of all the horizons of the soils were greater than 0.32. All the soils have low organic C and total N with both increasing down the soil depth. The FCC rated all the soils as suitable for arable crop cultivation with Katcha and Kashe fadama soils excellent for flooded rice cultivation. Ploughing, harrowing, ridging and field drainage to conduct water will be required for the successful cultivation of arable crops not tolerant to water-logging due to their clay texture. Gbakogi soil had low K level and will therefore need K fertilization especially for K-sensitive arable crops such as yam. The high P fixation capacity of Katcha and Kashe soils will require heavy application of P fertilizer to satisfy the need of leguminous arable crops that are sensitive to P. Integrated soil fertility management involving combination of inorganic fertilizers and organic manures is recommended for all the soils for their optimum and sustainable productivity.