Evaluation of Soil Reaction, Exchangeable Acidity and Cation Exchange Capacity of Soils from Kano University of Science and Technology Wudil Teaching, Research and Commercial Farm, Gaya

Abstract

This study evaluates the soil reaction, CEC and exchangeable acidity of some soils in the newly established Teaching, Research and Commercial Farm of the University of Science and Technology Wudil. Four profile pits designated as EPU, RU, CPU and HORTU were sunk at each representative unit. Soil samples were taken from the profile according to the pedogenic horizons identified and used for laboratory analysis. The fertility capability classification (FCC), system was used to evaluate the soils. Result obtained indicated that all soil profiles were found to be slight to neutral in acid content. The exchangeable acidity and CEC were low in all the locations. The study concludes that, the exchangeable acidity and CEC of the soils of the study area are generally low with slightly acidic to slightly alkaline in reaction. Adequate application of both organic and inorganic fertilizers will improve the organic matter content which will increase the level of CEC of the soils and also liming was recommended to rise the pH of the soils for enhanced production capacity in the study area.

Keywords: Exchangeable Acidity, Soil, Pedons and Fertility Status.