Variation in Soil Physicochemical Properties of Different Land Use Types in Abakaliki, South Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

The effect of land use on soil physicochemical properties was evaluated in soils of Abakaliki, south eastern Nigeria. The four land use types selected are managed Gmelina plantation (MP), fallow land (FL), grass land (GL) and continuously cultivated soil (CCS). Soil samples (undisturbed and auger) were collected from three soil depths of 0 – 20 cm, 20 - 40 cm and 40 – 60 ¬¬_ cm for physicochemical properties analysis. Bulk density was significantly (P < 0.05) lower (1.33 – 1.50 gcm-3) in FL across the depths than other land use types. The pH of the soils was moderately to slightly acidic. Soil organic carbon, total nitrogen and available phosphorus were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in FL than others and followed the trend FL>MP>GL>CCS. The exchangeable acidity was significantly different among the land use type but was the highest in MF (2.20) and the lowest in (GL). Across the soil depths, 0-20 _cm recorded higher values for bulk density, saturated hydraulic conductivity, soil organic carbon, total nitrogen and available phosphorus compared to other soil depths. In all, FL, MF and GL recorded higher values for most soil properties studied, while CCS recorded lower values. There was a decline in most of the properties studied due to continuous cultivation. How to Cite: Orji J. E., Igwe C. A., Osuji E. E., et. al., 2023. "Variation in Soil Physicochemical Properties of Different Land Use Types in Abakaliki, South Eastern Nigeria." Journal of Agriculture and Crops, vol. 9, pp. 462-471.