Field and Laboratory Evaluation of Dynamics in Soil Properties of Selected Land Use Types in Owerri, Southeastern, Nigeria

Abstract

Dynamics in properties of soils of three land use types (Fallow, Pineapple and Cassava) in Owerri, Southeastern Nigeria were evaluated under field and laboratory incubation conditions. Soil properties varied with time within land use types, with chemical more significantly than physical properties under both conditions. Averaged over time, concentration in soil properties was a decreasing order of fallow > cassava > pineapple. Concentrations and correlation between soil properties were more significant (P = < 0.05) under laboratory than field conditions. More than 80% of the relationship between soil properties under field and laboratory conditions was estimated by a regression model. Generally, Knowledge of the dynamics in properties of soils of land use types could be useful for efficient environmental monitoring and control. Also relationship between soil properties under field and laboratory conditions could be extrapolated for addressing management problems on other soils under similar land use.