Potassium Distribution in Surface Soils of Kust Teaching, Research and Commercial Farm, Gaya, Kano State

Abstract

A study was conducted on the distribution of potassium in the surface soil of Kano University of Science and Technology teaching, research and commercial farm, Gaya during 2018/2019 session. The contents of different forms of potassium were observed. Water soluble, exchangeable, non-exchangeable, mineral and total potassium were determined in surface soil (0–15cm) in KUST teaching, research and commercial farm, Gaya. The results showed that the average values for water soluble K, exchangeable K, non-exchangeable K, mineral K and total K were: 0.14, 0.18, 0.35, 1.36 and 3.92 Cmol/Kg soil respectively. The values for K saturation percentage (KSP) ranged between 0.12–019 and exchangeable K between 0.13–0.20 Cmol/Kg clay. There was a wide variation in the values of various forms of K and among indices associated with mineral composition in different soils. The results show that the values of K form in most of the studied soils are quite low. Consequently, the supplying power of potassium in these soils is low and the need for potassium fertilizer is recommended.