Soil Suitability Classification by Small Farmers

Procedures for soil suitability classification by small farmers of southwestern Nigeria are examined. Data were collected through interviews with 225 farmers at group and individual levels. The survey relied on the farmers'perception of some observable soil properties in the field. Soil properties included texture, color, organic matter, drainage condition of soil, and bulk density. The farmers determine soil types year round, irrespective of season, unlike the Hanunoo system. While soil types were identified by their texture and color characteristics, suitability classes were defined principally by texture. Eighteen soil types and four soil classes were identified for soil suitability classification projects designed for small farmers. The reliability and viability of the results of this study need to be verified through on-farm experiments.