ABSTRACT:

A study was carried out to characterize the agricultural soils of Abaji and to evaluate their sustainability status. Two agricultural estates were picked in in the area. A profile pit was dug in each estate and were studied morphologically. Samples were collected, prepared and analysed in the laboratory following standard procedures. The results showed the soils were deep ranging from 163 – 216 cm. Soil colour in the Abaji area are predominantly red with hues of 2.5YR, 5YR, 7.5YR and 10R. The soils were sandy loam, sandy clay loam and clay loam in texture. Most of the epipedons had moderate and medium crumb structure, while the endopedons had moderate medium sub angular blocky structure. Soil pH ranged from slightly acidic to neutral (6.3 – 6.7). Electrical conductivity in all the soils was low, organic carbon and total nitrogen were low and moderate and had regular distribution pattern within the profiles. Exchangeable cations were low and Cation exchange capacity was low to moderate. The soils of Abaji were classified based on USDA Soil Taxonomy as Kandic Rhodustalf which correlates with Rhodic Lixisol Dystric in WRB. In terms of sustainability status, the two soil units of Abaji were sustainable under the current land use. The soils were considered to be of low to moderate fertility and would require integrated nutrient management approach in ensuring optimum productivity level.