Soils derived from biotite-granites on the Jos Plateau, Nigeria: their nutrient status and management for sustainable agriculture

摘要

This study was carried out to assess the nutrient status of soils formed on biotite-granites on the Jos Plateau and to recommend management practices that can help to enhance and sustain the agricultural productivity of the soils. Twenty-three soil profile pits were dug and carefully studied in the area and soil samples collected were analysed for their physical and chemical properties. The results show that the soils are characterised by low to very low total nitrogen status, available phosphorus deficiency and low to very low calcium. Exchangeable potassium, magnesium and micronutrient elements (Cu, Zn and B) deficiencies do occur but their deficiencies are not general. Some of these problems can be traced to erosion, leaching, crop removal and the acidic and lateritic nature of most of the soils. Enhancement and sustenance of soil nutrient status for sustainable agriculture call for an integrated management package involving measures to minimize erosion and improve the nutrient status of the soils. This means that the farmers have to modify their present soil management practices. The need also arises for the government to embark upon realistic and stable measures that can help in enhancing the fertility of this category of soils nation-wide for sustainable agricultural productivity. Policy makers need to come up with strategic plans involving uninterrupted investments and work in partnership with the farmers through their appropriate agents.