Assessment of Sulfur Status and its forms in Soils of the NOUN Research Farm, Rigachikun, Kaduna State, Nigeria

A. Musa

Abstract


A study was conducted to evaluate the status and forms of Sulphur in soils of Rigachikun, Kaduna State, Nigeria, as part of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) research initiative. Soil samples were systematically collected using a grid sampling method across the farming community in Rigachikun, with 297 samples taken at a 0–30 cm depth. The samples underwent standard soil testing, and Sulphur forms were analyzed using the turbidimetric method. Data interpretation was conducted using descriptive analysis. Results indicated that Rigachikun soils predominantly consisted of sandy loam with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, low organic matter content (0.38%), and nitrogen level (0.06%). Sulphur content in Rigachikun soils was within sufficient range, with notable differences in the concentration of Sulphur forms. Total Sulphur had the highest concentration at 498.30 mg kg⁻¹, while non-sulphate Sulphur recorded the lowest at 0.74 mg kg⁻¹. The observed low levels of adsorbed and non-sulphate Sulphur were associated with the sandy loam texture and pH range of 6.24 to 6.99. In conclusion, the Sulphur status in Rigachikun soils is adequate. Therefore, it is recommended that management practices promoting Sulphur mineralization should be adopted by farmers to optimize sulphate availability for crop productivity.


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