Evaluation of Soils for Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) Production: A Case Study of Siwes Farms of University of Agriculture Makurdi

Abstract

The soils of the University of Agriculture Makurdi Teaching and Research Farm were surveyed, with the view to evaluating their morphological, physical and chemical properties for cowpea production. Makurdi is in a strategic position in the agricultural map of Nigeria, producing a wide range of both annual and perennial crops such as yam, maize, rice, sorghum, groundnut, soybean, cowpea, citrus, mangoes, and a variety of vegetables.  One of the factors responsible for this wide range of crops is the favourable climate. The study showed that the soils of the area had formed under climatic environment presently characterized by an annual rainfall of about 1330.20 mm and a mean annual temperature of about 27.80°C. The soils of the upper slope were classified as Typic Paleustalfs, while those of the middle and lower slopes were classified as Typic Haplustalfs and Typic Kandiaqualfs respectively, using soil taxonomy. The soils were well drained to poorly drained. The clay content ranged from 7.20 to 29.30%, increasing with depth. Organic carbon was low (0.47%) in the upland and relatively high (0.86%) in the low land. The soils had an irregular base saturation in all the Units. These soils are capable of moderately supporting cowpea production. The soils were moderately suitable for cowpea production.