P.O Abam1 and O.A.Orji2
1Crop and Soil Science Department, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt P.M.B.5323 Port Harcourt
2Crop/Soil Science Department, Rivers State University Nkpolu-Oruworukwo, Port Harcourt
Corresponding author: Orji, O. A.
IOSR Journal of Applied Geology and Geophysics (IOSR-JAGG) e-ISSN: 2321–0990, p-ISSN: 2321–0982.Volume 7, Issue 1 Ver. I (Jan. – Feb. 2019), PP 01-07
Abstract:
Morphological features and Physico-Chemical Properties of twenty surface soils derived from five varied parent materials in Cross Rivers Sate, Nigeria were evaluated in relation to probable constraints to increase crop yields. Four replicate soil samples were collected from the top 15cm depth of each parent material for laboratory analyses using standard methods. Results showed that the colour notations, structure and texture of the soils were similar within Same Parent materials but varied widely across the locations. The particle size distribution showed that shale derived soils are finer in texture than those of other parent materials. Chemically, the soils are low in Plant nutrient elements and the reaction is acidic with pH values ranging from 4.1 to 5.8 units. Results also showed that shale and basaltic rock derived soils are more endowed with organic carbon, total nitrogen and exchangeable bases than the soils derived from coastal plain sand, basement complex rocks and sandstone. There was positive and highly significant correlation among the soil properties. In order to improve the productive capacity of these soils to obtain high cropyields, remedial measures aimed at correcting the deficiencies will include liming to increase pH levels to near neutral and providing optimal levels of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and basic cations through organic manure combine with inorganic fertilization.
Keywords: morphology, physico-chemical Properties, soils, plant materials.