ASSESSMENT OF EXTRACTABLE MICRONUTRIENT STATUS OF SOME SOILS OF BARKIN LADI PLATEAU STATE ,NIGERIA

ABSTRACT This study assessed the availability of extractable micro-nutrient status of soils in Barkin Ladi, Plateau State, Nigeria.. Ten soil samples. were collected from different sampling points (0–30 cm depth) and analyzed for particle size distribution, bulk density, infiltration, porosity, pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, exchangeable bases, and DTPA-extractable micro-nutrients (Zn, Cu, Fe, and Mn). Results revealed that soils in the study area are sandy to sandy clay in texture, influencing infiltration and water-holding capacity generally the soils are moderately acidic (pH 5.07), with low organic carbon (0.28–1.08 %) , total nitrogen (0.018–0.066 %) and available phosphorus, exchangeable bases (Ca, Mg, K, and Na). Extractable Fe and Mn were within adequate levels, whereas Zn and Cu were below critical limits at several sampling points, indicating localized deficiencies. .Coefficient of variability of all the parameters fall within lower limits. The correlation analysis showed weak relationships between extractable micro-nutrients and soil properties, suggesting high spatial variability and the need for site-specific management. The study concludes that the soils are low in fertility and that targeted application of Zn and Cu fertilizers, improved organic matter management, and periodic soil testing are essential to sustain productivity in the area. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Keywords: Micronutrients, Soil Fertility, Barikin Ladi, Zinc, Copper, Iron, Manganese.