Characterization and Classification of Soils of Askate Sub-watershed, South Wollo Zone, Northeastern Ethiopia

Abstract

Information on soil is an essential in sustainable utilization of soil resources and sound land use planning. Therefore, this study was conducted with the objective of characterization and classification of soil on Askate sub-watershed, northeastern Ethiopia. Four representative soil pedons were opened along topographic position and described on each identified genetic horizons basis on the field for their morphological characteristics following the soil field description guidelines. The morphological properties were examined in the field while physical and chemical properties were analyzed in laboratory. The results of the study were revealed variation in morphological, physical, and chemical properties of the soils. Soil textural classes were sandy loam to loam sandy. The bulk density ranged from 1.04 to 1.60 g cm-3. The soil reaction rated as slightly acidic to moderate acidic (5.4 to 6.7). The OM ranged from 0.41 to 3.23% while available P ranged from 0.72 to 9.36 mg kg-1 which was low to medium rate. The exchangeable bases ranged from low to medium rate in the study area. CEC was medium to high rate, which implies the medium nutrient reservoir of the soil. Finally, three soil types, Humic Cambisols, Haplic Luvisol, and Cambic Umbrisols were identified in the study area according to World Reference Base. Using the soils according to their potential and applications of optimum organic and inorganic fertilizers are essential to keep the sustainability of soil fertility for better crop production and productivity.

Determine the status of soil physiochemical properties of the Hawa Moyi micro-watershed in Western highland of Ethiopia

“…The same trend of TN and OC may indicate that organic matter is also a major source of TN. In line with current nding several studies indicated a strong positive relation between TN and OC 23,34,35 . The C/N demonstrated inconsistency with depth in all pedons and slope position of the studied area.…”

“…Several researchers reported similar trends to the current study. Accordingly, 24,35,40 reported higher levels of extractable micronutrients in surface horizons than in subsurface horizons because of the high OM and low pH on the surface soil.…”