PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF COCOA GROWING SOILS OF BOKI, CROSS RIVER STATE NIGERIA
2020
Kekong, M.A.
Some physical and chemical properties of cocoa growing soils in six cocoa growing communities in Boki, CrossRiver State, Nigeria were assessed to ascertain their suitability for sustainable cocoa production. Twelve farmswere randomly selected in Bunyia, Kakwagom, Ogep-Osokom, Isobendegbe, Bashua and Olum. Twenty four(24) composite representative soil samples were collected from the farms, analysed using standard laboratoryprocedures. Results show that the soil textural classes ranged from sandy loam to clay loam [sand (58.45%), silt(13.46%) and clay (28.09%)]. The mean values of the chemical properties include: pH (5.56), EC (0.021ds/m),OM (3.24%), TN (0.09%), Av. P (5.77 mg/kg), K (0.12 cmol/kg), exch. Mg (2.06 cmol/kg), exch. Na (0.05cmol/kg), EA (1.61 cmol/kg), ECEC (9.00 cmol/kg) and Base saturation (81.25%). Total Nitrogen,Exchangeable Calcium, Exchangeable Magnesium and Base Saturation were adequate within and aboverecommended levels, while Available phosphorus, Potassium, Organic Matter, Electrical Conductivity andECEC were below critical levels. For increased yields and sustainable cocoa production in Boki, incorporation oforganic manure and other residues and application of appropriate rates of phosphorus and potassium fertilizersare therefore recommended.
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