SOIL PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND SUITABILITY FOR OIL PALM IN ETHIOPE EAST AND ETHIOPE WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS, DELTA STATE, NIGERIA

This study assessed the soil physicochemical properties and fertility status of selected oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) plantations in Ethiope East and Ethiope West Local Government Areas of Delta State, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected from 0–20 cm depth and analyzed for particle size distribution, bulk density, total porosity, saturated hydraulic conductivity, pH, organic carbon, organic matter, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, exchangeable bases, cation exchange capacity, micronutrients, and heavy metals using standard laboratory methods. The results showed that the soils were predominantly sandy loam to loamy sand, with moderate bulk density and favourable porosity for oil palm growth. Soil reaction was generally acidic, organic matter and potassium levels were low, while nitrogen and phosphorus were rated high across the communities. The study recommended soil organic matter enhancement and site-specific nutrient management for improved oil palm productivity