Comparison of the Characteristics of Soils of Isolated Forests and Adjacent Grasslands in Nsukka Area of Enugu State, Nigeria

The soils of isolated forests on hilltops and the surrounding grasslands in three locations at Ashor Hill, AttabaHill, and Umuowo Hill, all in Nsukka area were comparatively characterized. Two auger samples were collected (0-20 and 20-40cm) from each vegetation type per location giving a total of 12 auger samples while two profiles pit each were dug, described and sampled. In all, 24 samples were collected processed, analyzed and results subjected to statistical analysis. The majority of soil properties showed no significant difference across the vegetation types except soil pH and CEC, which were significantly higher in grassland than in forestland in A and Bt horizons. Consequently, soils of forestland were extremely acidic while that of grassland were strongly acidic. The CEC of the soils across the two vegetation types ranged from medium to high in status and soil textures from sandy loam to sandy clay loam. The clay content was generally low but increased with soil depth or down the profile probably due to argillation. The mean values of organic matter, total nitrogen, and exchangeable bases, CEC percentage base saturation and available phosphorus in the topsoil were found to be higher in forestland than grassland possibly due to higher accumulation of leaf litters and higher nutrient cycling in forestland than grassland. As a result, forestland appeared higher in fertility status and thus agricultural potential than grassland. However, contouringand lime application are necessary to optimize the productivity of the forestland.