Suitability evaluation of soils of gboko-south in Benue state, Nigeria, for Sorghum (Sorghum vulgare) production

Soils of Gboko-South in Benue State were classified and evaluated for their suitability for sorghum (Sorghum vulgare) cultvation. Critical land and soil requirements for sorghum production were related with data obtained from both field and laboratory studies. The result showed that almost all the soils were Alfisols at the Order level using the USDA Soil Taxonomy while unit V was Inceptisols. The evaluation of the soils indicates that all the soils were moderately suitable for sorghum production except unit I. Generally, soils of the study area were however, of low inherent soil fertility. The soils were moderate to very deep, well drained exception of unit I that was poorly drained. They had coarse textured and slightly to moderately acid in reaction (pH 5.00 to 6.40), sandy loam surface texture, low organic matter content (0.19% to 0.95%), high base status (74% to 78%), low N (0.56mg/kg to 1.05mg/kg). Land qualities/characteristics (mean annual temperature, rainfall, relative humidity, soil depth, topography, base status etc) were not a major limitation to sorghum production. On suitability rating, the soils were moderately (S2-n) suitable for sorghum production except unit I soils that are marginally (S3-n) suitable for the crop production. However, if the limitation of soil fertility is addressed through the application of chemical fertilizers and organic matter incorporation, these soils structures will adjust and fertility level boosted.