Characterization, Taxonomic and Fertility Capability Classification of Some Soils in the Teaching and Research Farm of Taraba State University, Jalingo

Result-oriented and competitive agricultural production system requires soil characterization and land evaluation. The soils of the Teaching and Research Farm of Taraba State University were characterized, taxonomically classified and evaluated for fertility capability classification. Three mapping units were delineated using a semi-detailed survey method, and profile pits were dug in the mapping units. Soil sampling was done based on the pedogenic horizons. The soils were deep, well-drained, and brown to yellowish-brown. Soil bulk density exceeded 1.8 g/m3 in most soils, while sand size dominated the particle size distribution. Soil reaction was slightly acid to slightly alkaline, while organic carbon and exchangeable bases were low in all the mapping units. The soils closely fit in the order of Alfisols and correlated with Lixisols. The FCC system evaluated the soils based on physical and chemical fertility constraints and limitations for general arable cropping. The strata and substrata-type soils comprise sandy loam topsoil, with two of the pedons showing loamy sand strata types. Classification of the soils into various FCC units revealed that over 85 % of the soils were arable, with only one soil type, Inceptic Haplustalf having FCC unit LR+++. The major limitation of the soil was rock outcrop and very high gravel content. Most of the soils could be effectively utilized for massive maize, and groundnut production, which is the common dominant land uses in the area. Organic manuring, balanced nutrient fertilization and conservation techniques such as contour farming is recommended for soil management.