Effects of Faidherbia albida Del. A. Chev. on Soil Properties in Agroforestry Parkland Ecosystem in Garki Village, Katsina State, Nigeria

Abstract

Faidherbia albida is an important tree species which contributes to soil fertility in dry lands of Northern Nigeria. This study assessed the effects of Faidherbia albida on selected soil physiochemical properties with a view to providing information on the species’ contribution to the nutrient status of dry land soils. Soil samples were obtained from the base of twenty one Faidherbia albida trees in two height and crown diameter classes. A total of 168 soil samples were collected at the end of 2019 cropping season to avoid masking of excessive salts from soil amendments and management practices. These comprised four samples taken at 2 m and 10 m radii round each Faidherbia tree at depths of 0 – 20 cm (top soil) and 20 – 40 cm (sub-soil). Soil composites were analysed for soil physico-chemical properties. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and T-test. The soil properties beneath the tree canopy, at 2 m and 10 m radii, were influenced by the trees. However, there were no significant differences among the soil physico-chemical properties across the distances, except for bulk density. Faidherbia albida altered soil properties and would be a suitable candidate for soil improvement efforts in dry land soils of Northern Nigeria.