Soil Management Methods under Rice Cultivation in Ndokwa Grassland Soils of Delta State, Nigeria

The study examines the soil management methods under rice cultivation in Ndokwa grassland soils with the aim of determining the most effective soil management measures for rice cultivation. Soil samples were collected at three locations where rice is presently cultivated in the area. Five plots of 20m x 20m were randomly selected from each location for assessment, both for cultivated and uncultivated plots. Soil samples were collected and analyzed for physical, chemical and heavy metals properties in the soil using the most probable instruments and analytical methods. The yield of rice harvested was measured in tons per hectares (He). The results revealed that the application of soil management techniques has enhanced rice yields by 23.45tons/He. The combination of slash and burn, tillage and soil amendment indicates the best soil management techniques that enhanced the yield of rice in the area. The result of the multiple regression analysis showed an r value of 0.996, indicating that soil improvement methods contributed over 99% to soil fertility status of the Ndokwa grassland. The study therefore recommends the adoption of the combination of slash and burn, tillage and soil amendment as the best soil improvement method on rice yied in the Ndokwa grassland soil.