Suitability Evaluation of Some Plinchustalfs for Rain - Fed Rice Production in Southern Guinea Savanna of Nigeria

The plinthustalfs of Minna, southern Guinea savanna zone of Nigeria, have poor physical properties which induce water-logging during wet seasons which may make them suitable for rice production. This study evaluated their suitability for rain-fed rice production using FAO Land Suitability Classification system. Two sites, the Experimental Farm of the Federal University of Technology, Minna (EF) and Maizube Farms (MF) representing the soils, were evaluated. Results indicated that both sites had subsurface plinthite horizon, massive structures and were poorly drained. Rainfall, temperature and topography of the two sites are favourable for rain-fed rice production. The chemical properties, reaction, phosphorus, total N, organic C, and CEC of the surface soils of the two sites were rated suitable for rain-fed rice production. EF was rated not suitable (N) because of soil depth limitation while, MF was rated marginally suitable (SS) with fertility (organic C) limitation which can be corrected b manuring and incorporation of crop residues. The two sites, in the alternative with adequate drainage and ridging, can be put to the cultivation of groundnut, cowpea, soybeans and early season maize.