Impact of the different sources of mulch on soil chemical properties of an Ultisol in Umudike, South East Nigeria
This research was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of Abia State University Umudike, to evaluate the impact of different sources of mulch on soil chemical properties of an Ultisol in Umudike, South East Nigeria. The experiment comprised of five (5) treatments namely, Control = 0t/ha, R...
| Main Authors: | , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Bulgarian Soil Science Society
2022-11-01
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| Series: | Bulgarian Journal of Soil Science |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.bsss.bg/issues/Issue2_2022/BJSS_2022_2_5.pdf |
| Summary: | This research was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of Abia State
University Umudike, to evaluate the impact of different sources of mulch on soil
chemical properties of an Ultisol in Umudike, South East Nigeria. The experiment
comprised of five (5) treatments namely, Control = 0t/ha, R1 – Ricemill waste 10/ha,
R2 - Ricemill waste 15/ha, S1 - Sawdust =10t/ha, S2 - Sawdust = 15t/ha. The
experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with the
treatments replicated three (3) times to give a total of fifteen (15) plots. Raw data
obtained was analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and significant means
were separated using Fisher least significant difference (F-LSD) at probability level of
(P<0.05). The results obtained showed that total exchangeable acidity significantly
(P<0.05) reduced in mulched plots compared to the control. Soil pH, available
phosphorous, total nitrogen, organic carbon and exchangeable cations of mulched
plots were significantly (P<0.05) higher than the control. Similarly, Effective cation
exchange capacity (ECEC), percentage base saturation and C: N ratio was
significantly (P<0.05) higher when compared with the control. Sawdust application at
the rate of 15t/ha significantly (P<0.05) increased pH, organic carbon, available
phosphorous, effective cation exchange capacity (ECEC), percentage base saturation
and C: N ratio compared to control and ricemill at 15t/ha. However, Ricemill waste at
10t/ha and 15t/ha significantly (P<0.05) increased soil total nitrogen and sodium (Na)
content compared to control and sawdust at different rates. Ricemill waste and
sawdust mulch positively influenced soil chemical properties and could be
recommended for enhancement of soil chemical properties in Umudike South East
Nigeia. |
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| ISSN: | 2534-8787 2367-9212 |