Influence of bush fallow on the physical and chemical quality of acid sands in South-eastern Nigeria

Abstract

This paper reports the effect of bush fallow on the physical and chemical properties of acid sand soils in Akwa Ibom State, South-eastern Nigeria. It shows that the bush fallow period is drastically reduced. About 30.0% of the farmers cultivate their lands after 4-year fallow, 26.0% after 1-year fallow, while 13.3% cultivate after 3 and 7-year fallow. The soils were sandy in texture and bulk density averaged less than 1.40g/cm3 among the fallow ages. Non-capillary porosity averaged more than 40% among the fallow ages. Hydraulic conductivity varied from moderately rapid to rapid, while available water capacity was generally lower than 7cm3/15cm depth. Water stable aggregates > 2mm diameter were low, averaging less than 30.0% among the fallow ages. The soils were slightly acidic, and organic carbon content was generally low averaging between 1.90% and 2.24% among the fallow ages. Effective CEC was lower than 6 Cmol/kg, and base saturation was higher than 50%. The fallow ages were statistically similar in the measured parameters. Management practices that will enhance soil productivity are suggested.

Nigerian Journal of Soil Science Vol. 15 2005: 96-101