Assessment of Soil Nutrient Status of Identified Soil Units in Selected Communities in Three Local Government Areas of Rivers State Nigeria

Abstract

The paper focused on assessment of soil nutrient status of farmers identified soil units in communities within three local government areas of Rivers State Nigeria. Qualitative data collection technique was employed in the study and the study covered Soils were collected from each of the soil units identified by farmers in these communities. The soils are generally sandy with over 700g/kg sand content, with pH values ranging from 3.6 – 5.7, thus making the soils have very strong acidity to strong acidity. The calcium, potassium and magnesium concentrations in the soil are low. Available phosphorus content in the soils is generally high with values higher than 20 mg/kg soil. The overall picture of the soils is that of low nutrient status. The low nutrient values in these soils coupled with low pH and inherent soil fertility status underscored the need for improved soil management practices.