Assessment of Soil Physicochemical Properties in The Parklands of Northern Nigeria

Abstract

A study was conducted to examine the soil physicochemical properties and nutrients status in parklands of northern Nigeria. Soil samples were collected using soil auger close to mature trees, tree saplings and seedlings from three states (viz. Bauchi, Jigawa and Kano) in different depths (0–15 cm, and 16–30 cm) and analyzed for soil physical and chemical properties. Soil pH was weakly acidic (5.7–6.0) and not significant (P<0.05). Total Nitrogen, CEC, and Ca all showed no significant difference and decreased with increase in depth. Sand, silt, clay and Mg were statistically different (p<0.05) and decreased with increase in depth. Pearson's correlation matrix revealed significant positive correlations of soil properties with fertility indices. The soils in the agricultural parklands of the states are fairly low in fertility. Mass sensitization and awareness of farmers on best practices that will help improve the soil fertility and nutrients status in the parkland and improve farmers’ livelihood are highly recommended. Further evaluations of soil factors are needed to be carried out that will lead to data availability and help in critical evaluation of soil dynamics as well as give an insight to how the fertility and productivity of the soils support and improve biodiversity stability.