Soil Fertility and Productivity Test Analysis of Selected Soils of Evite Otu, Aguleri, Anambra East Lga, Anambra State

The study was carried out to assess the fertility and productivity potentials of selected soils of Evite Otu, Aguleri in Anambra East LGA of Anambra State, with a view to making adequate management practices for sustainable crop production in the area. Three mapping units were delineated using the transect method of soil survey. The properties of the surface soil of the units were examined for fertility status while the profile characteristics assessed for productivity potentials for the cultivation of sweet potatoes, cassava, cowpea and lowland rice. Results obtained across the mapping units showed low sand (26%) fractions with irregular distribution down the depth. Soil reaction varied from very strongly (4.50 - 5.00) to strongly (5.10 - 5.40) acid conditions. Percent organic carbon was generally high (> 1.6 %). Total nitrogen, available phosphorus and exchangeable potassium values were generally moderate. The productivity of mapping unit 1 was limited by imperfectly drained condition (w) and thus, currently marginally suitable (S3) for the cultivation of sweet potatoes, cassava and cowpea but moderately suitable (S2) for lowland rice cultivation. The optimal performance of mapping unit 2 was constrained by fertility (f) thus, currently moderately suitable (S2) for the cultivation of sweet potatoes, cassava and cowpea but marginally suitable (S3) for lowland rice cultivation. Mapping unit 3 was highly suitable (S1) for sweet potatoes; moderate (S2) for cassava; and marginal (S3) for cowpea and lowland rice cultivation. Adequate drainage, liming, application of appropriate fertilizers and suitable soil management would enhance optimal productivity of the land for the crops.