Kwara Agricultural Corridor Soil Map Summary

Haplic LixisolsDeep, slightly acidic soils with a clay-enriched subsoil

Dystric NitisolsDeep, red with well developed structure, acid

FluvisolsStream-deposited soils along river

Adapted by Harold van Es, Cornell University from: A. Jones et al., 2013. Soil Atlas of Africa. European Commission, Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg. 176 pp.

Soil CharacteristicsLixisols

Strengths: Lixisols can be fairly productive. The low inherent fertility and nutrient-retention capacity dictate a split-application of necessary fertilizers. Liming is not required.Weaknesses: Lixisols do not hold much organic matter. Consequently, high-intensity rainfall will destroy any soil structure present.Opportunities: Surface mulch during fallow periods will help prevent the development of a crust. Irrigation is needed to grow crops during the dry season or to overcome dry spells during the rainy season. The use of water traps is recommended to store as much rainwater as possible in the soil.Threats: Lixisols are prone to erosion. If not protected, a crust may develop which prevents rain from entering the soil. Overland flow will then erode the topsoil which is the most fertile part. Also wind erosion may take its toll; loose soil particles on the surface can easily be blown away.

Soil CharacteristicsNitisols

Strengths: Nitisols are suited for a wide range of crops. Weaknesses: In annual cropping, fertilizer application is necessary to make these soil productive. Due to the high amount of active iron, Nitisols suffer from phosphate-fixation. Retention rates of 80% or more are common. Irrigation is needed to grow crops during the dry season or to overcome dry spells during the rainy season.Opportunities: Intensive liming can overcome aluminum toxicity.Threats: Erosion on slopes.

Soil Characteristics

Fluvisols

Strengths: Fluvisols are fertile because of the regular supply of nutrients from flooding, and are highly suitable for wetland rice and pastures.Weaknesses: Flood control or drainage may be needed due to proximity of rivers. Low-lying backswamps, if not suitable for wetland rice, are best left under the natural vegetation; these areas may be used for extensive grazing when they are accessible.Opportunities: High agricultural potential.Threats: Flooding and waterlogging.

Groundwater