Properties and Potentials of Soils of Liman Katagum Bauchi State, Nigeria

Lemuel Musa Maniyunda

Abstract: The properties and potentials of soils of Liman Katagum (LK) in Bauchi State were assessed for both rainfed and irrigated crop production. Six soil mapping units were identified. The soils were moderately deep to very deep (93 163cm), except for exposed petroplinthite in some part of land unit LK 2. Soil pH ranged between 4.7 and 8.4, and was rated moderately acid to moderately alkaline. The soils were characterized by moderate fertility status. Improved management techniques were suggested for sustainable use of the land to improve farmers economy in the area. Assessment of the land potential showed that land units LK 3, LK 5 and LK6 (47.5 %; 9.975ha) were moderately suitable (S2) and LK 1 and LK 4 (27.5 %; 5.775ha) marginally suitable (S3) for rainfed crop production. For irrigated crop production, land units; LK 3, LK 4, LK 5 and LK 6 (51.43 %; 10.8ha) were potentially moderately suitable (S2) and Land unit LK 1 (23.57 %; 4.95ha) marginally suitable (S3). Land unit LK 2 constituting 25 % (5.25ha) of the land was not potentially suitable (N2) for either rainfed or irrigated agriculture.

Keywords: Continuous cultivation, Soil management, physical and chemical properties, potential capacity