The Nature of Soils and Their Agricultural Potential at Enemor Ener Woreda, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Availability of accurate soil data is necessary in understanding the nature of the soil and its status of the agricultural potential. Aim: Thus, a research was carried out to investigate physicochemical and morphological properties of the soils and characterize, classify and mapping them accordingly at Enemor Ener woreda, southern Ethiopia. Methods: Nineteen (19) representative pedons were opened from lower, middle and upper slopes and described them according to WRB (2014). Soil samples from each horizon were analysed for physicochemical properties. Results: Soils in the study area are so variable in their formation and nutrient availability. The major soil textural classes are clay loam and clay. Calcium the most dominant exch. bases whereas, Magnesium, sodium and potassium follow in decreasing order. The soil pH was ranged from strongly acidic to neutral reaction. Total nitrogen and organic carbons contents in all soils of the pedons are low to very low. Phosphorous content was ranged from optimum to very low content. Cation exchange capacity and percentage of the base saturation were ranged from very high to optimum, in regards to the micronutrients such as iron, manganese, copper and zinc in the soils were ranged from sufficient III to sufficient I.  Major soil types revealed in the study area are Chromic Luvisols, Haplic Nitisols, Mollic Leptosols and Mesotrphic Vertisols. Conclusion:  Soil properties and their potential status influenced by topography and land use type. Therefore, practice of soil integrated fertility management is vital for their sustainability.