This study aimed to characterize, classify, and evaluate the soils on three geological formations in Nsukka, Eastern Nigeria for pepper production. The geological formations included Upper Coal Measure (UCM), False Bedded Sandstone (FBS), and Nkporo Shale (NS). Three pedons were excavated to represent each of these geological formations. Soil properties were determined using appropriate methods. The pedons were very deep ( 150 cm). Bulk density, porosity, and soil texture varied among the geological formations. The pH values ranged from 5.0 to 7.3, indicating moderately acidic to neutral conditions. The SOM content varied from 0.14-1.24 g/kg, indicating low levels. Similarly, sodium, potassium, acidity, and available phosphorus levels were also low, with values ranging from 0.01-0.05 cmol/kg, 0.03-0.07 cmol/kg, 0.60-2.20 cmol/kg, and 0.93-4.66 mg/kg, respectively. Exchangeable calcium and magnesium were moderate, ranging from 2.40-5.00 cmol/kg and 0.40-1.60 cmol/kg, respectively. Total nitrogen content was relatively high, ranging from 0.30 to 1.50 g/kg. Base saturation values varied, with high values of 61% for UCM, moderate values of 53% for NS, and low values of 33% for FBS. Based on the USDA classification system, the soils in the UCM, NS, and FBS were classified as Typic Hapludalfs, Typic Eutrustox, and Arenic Kanhapludults respectively. In terms of suitability for pepper production, UCM soils were determined to be moderately suitable, NS soils were marginally suitable, and FBS soils were deemed not suitable. Based on our findings, we recommend implementing appropriate soil management practices to enhance soil fertility and optimize pepper crop production in the study area.
P et al. (Mon,) studied this question.
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