The rhizosphere soil health plays a vital role the productivity of plant and lasting sustainability of land. This study was carried out to assess the physical and chemical properties of rhizospheres of soils under Gnetum africanum (Ukazi), Ananas comosus (Pineapple), Musa × paradisiaca (Plantain) cultivations, and a five-year fallow soil cosidered as the control. Soil samples were randomly and uniformly collected from four points within each land use type. A total of twelve composite samples were properly labeled, transported to the laboratory, and prepared for standard soil analyses. Standard laboratory techniques were used to determine soil pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, total exchangeable acidity, and exchangeable bases (Na⁺, K⁺, Ca²⁺, and Mg²⁺). The results showed significant differences in soil properties among the different land use types. Rhizosphere soils under plantain cultivation exhibited relatively higher pH, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and cation exchange capacity. These properties suggest improved soil fertility and a better environment for microbial activity and nutrient cycling. In contrast, the control (fallow) and Ukazi soils recorded relatively lower values for these soil properties including higher bulk density suggesting poor soil structural and biological activity. Generally, the study emphasizes the strong impact of land use type on rhizosphere soil quality and that continuous cultivation under suitable crops, such as plantain, can improve soil nutrient status and biological functioning, while fallow soil or certain crop systems may not adequately support soil fertility. To improve rhizosphere soil health particularly in the control and Ukazi land use types, the sustainable land management practices adoption is recommended. These practices include the organic amendments incorporation, use of microbial inoculants and crop rotation. These soil fertility management methods will promote lasting soil productivity and environmental sustainability.
Keywords: Environmental sustainability, Rhizosphere soil, land use type, soil productivity
