SOIL FERTILITY EVALUATION UNDER DIFFERENT LAND USE TYPE IN IKORODU, LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study was conducted to assess the fertility status and nutrient index of the soils under two land use types (oil palm plantation and cassava farmland) in Ikorodu, Lagos State in 2024. Reconnaissance Survey of two land use types was carried out and samples were collected using systematic random sampling from each slope position at 0-20 and 20-40 cm depths. The samples were analysed to determine selected physical and chemical properties. Results indicated that the fertility status of soils under two land use types were medium to high, with high organic carbon contents and slightly acidic pH. The available phosphorus and potassium content were also high within both soils. The soils generally possessed high sand content with sandy loam and loamy sand texture. The results also shows that there is potential for improvement in soil fertility condition. As a result, manure application, balanced fertiliser usage, suitable cultivation techniques, and nutrient management are necessary to improve soil fertility and achieve optimal crop production levels.