DOI: 10.36347/sjavs.2016.v03i03.019

Pages: 257-261

A study was conducted to assess the status and distribution of available micronutrient (Zn, Mn, Cu and Fe) in Udic Kanhaplustults of Bauchi local government area, Bauchi state. A total of 12 composite soil samples were collected at 0-15 and 15-30 cm depths from six different, purposively selected representative locations (Yelwa Tudu, Yelwa Makaranta, Gwallameji, Lushi, Bayara and Mararaba Liman Kataghum). The soil samples were bulked together to form a composite sample for each site and was analyzed using standard procedure. The results showed that the soil texture ranged from sandy loam to loam and the mean values were 0.22, 0.25, 2.25 and 1.81mg/kg for Zn, Cu, Fe, and Mn respectively. The extractable micronutrient distribution was not significantly influenced by depth but varied significantly (P<0.05) with locations. The soils across the location were generally below the critical limiting especially Zn content and would benefit immensely from zinc application. However, the contents of Cu, Fe, and Mn were rated low to medium in all the locations considered except for Yelwa Tudu where Fe content was high. Therefore, for sustainable and efficient food production, supplementary application of these elements is suggested and application of organic matter to improve the overall fertility of the soil and to reduce the possible development of plinthic/petroplinthic layers.