Effect of Cropping Practice on Fertility Status of the Northern Guinea Savannah Soil of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Research Farm in Rigachikun, Kaduna State Nigeria

A. Musa

Abstract


This study investigated the impact of cropping systems on soil fertility status at the NOUN Research Farm, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Two sites within the farm were utilized for monocropping and mixed cropping, while a fallow land served as the control. Sixty soil samples were collected from the three sites at a depth of 0–20 cm and analyzed for chemical properties in the laboratory. The analysis revealed that the mean values of soil chemical properties decreased from fallow land to monocropping and mixed cropping systems. This decline in nutrient content under the two cropping systems, compared to the fallow land, led to a significant reduction in crop output. These findings indicate that cropping systems influence soil elements, fertility status, and ultimately agricultural productivity. To address these challenges, the study recommends adopting appropriate environmental soil management techniques to enhance soil fertility and ensure sustainable food production.


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References


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