It is evident that the production of food, fodder, fuel and feed to meet the requirement of human beings and animals is primarily dependent upon agriculture and allied areas which are dependent on soil resources. The study set out to assess the physico – chemical properties of soils and fertilizer requirements in Southern Senatorial district in Kaduna State, Nigeria. The main aim of this study is to assess the physico – chemical properties of the soils and the best types of fertilizers most suitable for those soils in Southern Senatorial District in Kaduna state. This study adopt an analytical approach, in which primary data (soil samples) were collected for physical and chemical properties analysis in laboratory. Four local government areas were selected out of seven for soil samples collection. The General Linear Model (GLM) Univariate ANOVA was used for determination of physico – chemical properties variations. The results showed that all the soils in the study area are slightly acidic with PH ranging from 5.4 – 6.5. The soils in Malagum ward, Kaura Local Government area are considered to be most deficient. The ANOVA test for all soil physical and chemical properties indicates that p<0.05 significantly varies ‘within’ and ‘between’ the local government areas. The study recommends the use NPK 15.15.15 or NPK 20.10.10 as the most appropriate fertilizer type suitable for use in crop production. When Urea fertilizers are needed to enhanced faster leave growth, they should be used in combination of basic superphosphates or lime. The study therefore, recommends training of Smallholder farmers for efficient fertilizer use and sustainable agricultural practices such as integrated soil fertility management (ISFM) which combines mineral fertilizer, organic matter and improved seeds to sustainably replenish nutrients to the soil, and to better conserve soil water.
Keywords: Farmers, Soil, crop yield, fertilizers, physico-chemical properties.
