Land Suitability Evaluation for Rainfed Agriculture in Abu Hamra Area, South Darfur State, Sudan

Abstract

This study was carried out in Abu Hamra Area, south Darfur State (Latitude 12˚26ʹ to 13˚10ʹ E and longitude<br />24˚24ʹ to 25˚56ʹ N and), Sudan where the area falls in semi-arid climate. The study aimed to evaluate the<br />land suitability for rainfed agriculture and to scan crop suitability. Through the analysis of satellite image<br />and direct field observations, the study area was divided into non-cracking clay soil (unit A) classified as<br />Sodic Haplocambid, alluvial soil (unit B) classified as Ustic Torrifluvent and loamy sand soil (unit C)<br />classified as Typic Torripsamments. 46 soil samples were collected from 12 auger holes and 3 representative<br />profiles, then analyzed for some physical and chemical properties which were matched with climatic factors<br />and topographic features to define the requirements of rainfed crops, particularly Sorghum, Millet, Maize,<br />Sesame, Groundnuts, Watermelon and Tomato. Duncan Multiple Range Test was used to determine<br />significance of differences in soil properties within and among the three units. Results showed that the soils<br />were non-saline, non-sodic (except unit A), calcareous to slightly calcareous and low in fertility. Results also<br />indicated no significant differences among soil properties except for texture, salinity and sodicity. The soils<br />were found to be marginally suitable (S3) for rainfed agriculture because of presence of fertility, drainage,<br />organic matter, texture and sodicity limitations and unit B proved to be the best soils of the three units. For<br />crop suitability, the soils of the three units had same suitability for some crops and differ for others.