Sustainable management of Fadama soils in derived savanna: characterization, classification, land evaluation, and suitability for hot pepper cultivation
March 13, 2026
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| Article Title: | Sustainable management of Fadama soils in derived savanna: characterization, classification, land evaluation, and suitability for hot pepper cultivation |
| Authors: | Babalola T.S., Ajayi S.O., Fakorede B.M., Amoloja O., Fasina A.S., Ogunwole J.O., Ojo C.A., Obiekwe D.C:, Ogunwale K.J. |
| Affiliation: | Department of Soil Science and Land Resources Management, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria |
| Abstract: | This study assessed the sustainable management potential of Fadama soils in the Derived Savanna of Nigeria through characterization, classification, and land suitability evaluation for hot pepper cultivation. The study was conducted at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti Teaching and Research Farm, where two representative soil profiles were described and sampled for physical and chemical analyses. Water samples from the soil profile and a nearby stream were also analyzed. The soils were moderate to deep (79–160 cm), with textures ranging from loamy sand to sandy loam and generally acidic pH. The soils were classified as Arenic Endoqualfs and Arenic Eutrudepts (USDA) and as Reductic Clayic Gleysols and Eutric Arenic Cambisols (WRB). Land suitability evaluation indicated that the soils are currently not suitable (N2) but potentially marginally suitable (S3) for hot pepper cultivation, with observed yields ranging from 0.9 to 1.97 t ha⁻¹. Improved soil fertility management, regular soil testing, drip irrigation, and conservation practices are recommended to enhance the sustainable utilization of Fadama soils for pepper production. |
| Keywords: | Fadama soils, land suitability evaluation, soil characterization, soil classification, sustainable soil management, hot pepper cultivation. |
| *Correspondence: | Temitope Seun Babalola, Department of Soil Science and Land Resources Management, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria, Tel. +23470547750, email: seun.babalola@fuoye.edu.ng |
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