Influence of traditional farming practices on soil productive potentials in Ago-Iwoye enclave, Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed soil production potentials in Ago-Iwoye enclave with a view to improving the soil quality for enhanced food production. The suitability of soils of two land use types were evaluated using F.A.O. framework and Fertility capability classification (FCC) system for maize and cassava. The suitability evaluation showed that 100% of the soil types were marginally suitable for maize 75% were moderately suitable and 25% marginally suitable for cassava. The major limitations to land quality were soil texture, topography and fertility. The FCC system classified soil types at land use 1 as Cevd >> and Led >>; land use 2 as Led >> and Led >>. In addition to the above, information was received from the respondents with the use of open – ended and structured questionnaire. Sixty five (65) respondents sample size was employed and this was subjected to absolute and relative frequencies. It was observed from the results that continuous multiple cropping was the major adopted farming system in the study area (89%) while the rest farming systems accounted for 11 percent. This is considered inappropriate for increased production that will enhance food security for the rapidly growing population in Nigeria. In view of the above, it is suggested that soil enriching crops like cowpeas, groundnut, melon and so on should be incorporated into cultural land use pattern and soil maintenance practices in the area of study.

Keywords: Farming practices, soil potential, suitable management practices and food sufficiency

Journal of Environmental Extension Vol. 6 2007: pp. 64-70