Fertility Status Of Soil In Irrigation Research Farm Of The Department Of Agricultural Engineering At Michael Okpara University Of Agriculture, Umudike:-Tom, Owoidighe E.

ABSTRACT

The study was carried out in Department of Agricultural and Engineering Irrigation Research Farm Michael Okpara University of Agricultural Umudike in Abia State. The major objectives were stature of soil properties and fertility status of the soil. Soil samples were collected from 120cm depth using Auger at 15cm intervals soil samples were collected at a depth of 120cm each at four dif erent positions within the plot. These soil samples were subjected to standard routine analysis. The physical properties analysis reveals average value of 178. 75 for D 10 effective size, uniformity coefficient of 3.294 and coefficient of curvature on the 0.834. The bulk density rate was on the average of 4.25 with average of 4.25 with average moisture content of 16.225%. For the chemical properties analysis the nitrate Nitrogen gave average values of 20. 41 (kg /Acre), potassium, 10.27kg/ Acre and PH value was 6.5. The soil in its natural state many not effectively supports commercial Agriculture, but with addition mulching organic and inorganic fertilizers the fertility status can be boosted. Also careful and well managed irrigation, drainage systems and minimum tillage, unwanted consequences such as erosion and leaching can be avoided.