CHARACTERIZATION AND FERTILITY CAPABILITY CLASSIFICATION OF THE SOILS OF SHASHA RIVER FLOODPLAIN, OSUN STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Characterization and fertility capability classification of soils of a floodplain in Osun State, Nigeria
were carried out. Soil samples from horizons of identified mapping units were analyzed for their
properties. Soils were grouped based on their fertility capabilities. Soil texture ranged from sandy
loam to sandy clay loam in the upper and mid basins while the basin floor was sandy loam. The soils
were slightly to strongly acidic, organic matter content ranged from low to high, available phosphorus
was low, while the exchangeable bases were high. The soils were characterized by the fertility
indicators: Lhkig for upper basin, Lir++g for mid basin and Lkig for basin floor. The agronomic
constraints of the soils include high acidity, low P content, low nutrient reserve, gravelly condition and
gleying. Sustainable management of the soils would require efficient soil management systems through
effective drainage, liming and fertilization with the use of bed and mound