Physical properties and organic matter content of the soils of Bade in Yobe State, Nigeria

The study was carried out to evaluate some physical properties of agricultural soils of Bade Local Government Area (LGA), Yobe State, Nigeria. One hundred and twenty soil samples, (0-20, 20-40, and 40-60cm depths) were randomly taken from four arable farms being cultivated for more than 30years in each of the 10 political wards of the LGA. The soil samples were analyzed for some physical properties and organic matter content using standard procedures. Results obtained show that the soils were sandy loam in texture, slightly high bulk density (median (IQR) = 1.63Mgm-3 (1.60-1.65 Mgm-3)) with a median porosity of 39% and IQR of 38-40%. The structural stability showed that the soils are usually unstable with a mean weight diameter (MWD) (median = 0.78mm). The soil organic matter content is also very low (median =1.57gkg-3 and IQR (1.30-180)). Incorporation of organic residues and manure as well as conservation tillage practices to the soil will improve its physical properties and enhance productivity.