Assessment of pH and soil degradation: Case of Rwanda tea growing areas

摘要

The aim of this study was to access the pH and soil degradation. Soil samples collected in eleven zones among three locations by zone were analyzed in the laboratory through pH Meter and the results indicates that pH of all soil samples is less than 5 (pH<5) and the general average was found to be 4.4. Heavy materials like Fe, Cu, Mn, and Zn presented a high concentration level. The elements H+ and C were those with minimum concentration, the elements Ca and Na presents a low level concentration, and the elements due to fertilizers which are N, P, and K. The results indicate that the soil in the tea plantations in Country is acidic and this level of pH may result in deficiency of some base elements like calcium, magnesium, potassium and nitrogen.