Study on Soil Morphology, Classification, Suitability and Capability Classes of Selected Arable Crops on a Toposequence in Adamawa State, Nigeria

S. A. Gisilanbe; S. A. Musa; I. J. Lebbiso; S. S. Bilayabu; H. D. Ali

S. A. Gisilanbe Department of Agronomy, Taraba State University, Jalingo, Nigeria.
S. A. Musa Department of Soil Science, Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola, Nigeria.
I. J. Lebbiso Department of Agriculture, Collage of Education, Hong, Nigeria.
S. S. Bilayabu Department of Soil Science, Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola, Nigeria.
H. D. Ali Department of Soil Science, Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola, Nigeria.

Keywords: Toposequence, soil suitability, pedon, soil workability, erosion hazards

Abstract

The study on soil morphology, classification, suitability and capability classification was carried out on Dabora-Yelwa toposequence with the view of improving soil management practices and increase the productive capacity of the farmers of the study area. Soil sampling units were delineated using GIS and the study area was categorized into 3 different slope positions on the toposequence and each slope position was recognized as a sampling unit. Two soil types were identified and classified into Typic Plinthustalfs (Yelwa and Sangbaa respectively) and Psammentic Paleudalfs (Dabora). Generally, structural development increased along the slope from upper slope to the lower slope position. Capability classification in the upper slope resulted in class C3 (IIIse) with limitations in texture and erosion hazards while the soils at the lower slope resulted in class C2 (IIsw). Suitability classification indicated that these soils were moderately suitable for sorghum at the upper slope while maize was marginally suitable with limitation in drainage. Measures such as land leveling, afforestation and use of cover crops will reduce the effect of erosion at the upper slope position.