ASSESSMENT OF SELECTED PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF SOIL AT KASHIM IBRAHIM UNIVERSITY TEACHING AND RESEARCH FARM, MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE

This study assessed selected soil properties at the Kashim Ibrahim University Teachining and Research Farm, Maiduguri, Borno state to evaluate their implications for soil management in a semi-arid environment. Soil samples were systematically collected from multiple location at two depths (0-15cm and 15-30cm). soil texture, bulk density, total porosity and water holding capacity were determined using standard laboratory procedures.Results showed considerably spatial and vertical variability in soil physical properties. Soil texture, ranged from clay to sandy clay loam with clay loam predominating. Bulk density value ranged from 0.90 to 1.24 gcm-3, while total porosity varied between 51.55% and 66.04%, exhibiting an inverse relationship with bulk density. Water holding capacity ranged from 38.18% to 65.81% and was generally low, though slightly higher in subsurface layer. Although the soil exhibited favorable porosity and texture for root growth, limitations such as low water holding capacity, localized compaction, and spatial heterogeneity were identified. The study highlights the need for site- specific soil management practices to enhance soil productivity and sustainability.