Formerly International Journal of Basic and Applied Agricultural Research

Suitability assessment of land resources for cassava (Manihot esculentus L.) and yam (Dioscorea spp L.) cultivation in Khana LGA, Rivers State, Southern Nigeria

PETER, K.D., UMWENI, A.S. and BAKARE, A.O.
Pantnagar Journal of Research, Volume - 19, Issue - 3 ( September-December, 2021)

Published: 2021-12-31

PDF Views - 7861 | Downloads - 7773

Abstract


This study was conducted in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, Southern Nigeria to investigate the suitability of agricultural land resources at semi detailed soil survey level using the nonparametric approach. Eight soil mapping units were established and suitable guidelines specific for each pedons were followed in establishing the suitability of the land for cassava and yam cultivation. The data from the eight pedons covering 49,631.54 hectares area were used for the assessment. The results showed that 40,681.54 hectares representing 81.97%of the total land in Khana LGA were moderately suitable (S2) for cassava production; while 8,950 hectares representing 18.04 % of the total land area were also marginally suitable (S3) for cassava production. An area of 30,582 hectares representing 61.82% were moderately (S2) suitable for yam production and 4,750 hectares representing 8.57 % were marginally suitable (S3); while 12,450 hectares representing 25.08% were currently not suitable (N) for yam production. Furthermore, the study showed that cassava and yam can adapt to similar environment in terms of climate, soil physical characteristics and fertility. Thus, land suitability map produced from this study would guide the choice of site to increase and sustain cassava and yam production in Khana.


Download Full PDF