IMPACT OF LAND USE AND DEPTH ON SOIL CHARACTERISTICS IN ORJI, IMO STATE, SOUTHEAST NIGERIA.
Abstract
This study assessed the impact of land use and soil depth on the physicochemical characteristics of soils in Orji, Imo State, and Southeast Nigeria. Soil samples were collected across four land use types yam, vegetable (ugu), cassava, and plantain at two locations (Ikeduru and Mbieri) using a soil auger at varying depth increments. Physical properties analyzed included particle size distribution, bulk density, total porosity, and moisture content, while chemical properties assessed included soil pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, exchangeable bases (Ca, Mg, K, Na), exchangeable acidity (Al, H), total exchangeable bases, effective cation exchange capacity (ECEC), and base saturation.
Results showed that soils were predominantly sandy, with sand fractions ranging from 793.60 to 827.60 g/kg across land uses. Bulk density ranged from 1.27 to 1.33 g/cm³, while total porosity ranged from 49.66 to 52.15%. Soil pH values ranged from 5.50 to 5.62, indicating slightly acidic conditions. Organic carbon and total nitrogen were higher in surface horizons and declined with depth. Significant differences (p
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