COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF SOIL PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES IN BICHI AND GAYA FARMS, KANO STATE, NIGERIA

The degradation of soil fertility is a significant challenge to agricultural productivity in northern Nigeria. This research conducts a comparative analysis of the physical and chemical properties of soils in Bichi and Gaya locations to evaluate their viability for cultivation of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Composite soil samples (0-20 cm) were collected from Bichi and Gaya and analyzed using standardized laboratory techniques for parameters, including texture, BD, pH, EC, OC, OM, nitrogen, phosphorus, sodium, calcium, magnesium, EB, and CEC. The results determined that both soils are classified as loamy sand, but Bichi exhibited a higher BD (1.66 g/cm3) compared to Gaya (1.46 g/cm3), reflecting compaction. The soils were found to be slightly acidic (pH: Bichi 6.72; Gaya 6.37) and non-saline (EC ˂ 0.05 ds/m) with respective EC values of 0.04 ds/m for Bichi and 0.01 ds/m for Gaya. Both OC and OM levels were low, particularly in Gaya, with Bichi showing values of 0.54 % OC and 0.94% OM and Gaya showing values of 0.34% OC and 0.58% OM. Nitrogen levels were critically low in both areas (≤ 0.05 mg/kg), measuring 0.05 mg/kg in Bichi and 0.04 mg/kg in Gaya, whereas phosphorus was found to be higher in Gaya (13.91 mg/kg) compared to Bichi (7.48 mg/kg). EB and CEC values were also low, with Bichi recording slightly elevated CEC (3.5 cmol/kg) as compared to Gaya (3.05 cmol/kg). Both locations soils are loamy sand with low OC, nitrogen, and CEC, limiting fertility. Bichi’s higher BD and pH favor root growth, while Gaya’s higher phosphorus and calcium may enhance nutrient availability. Soil amendments are needed for sustainable cultivation.