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


PI Ogban
UK Ukpong
IG Essien

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

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