Soil classification, suitability assessment, and constraints analyses of major soil series grown to sugarcane in Negros Occidental, Philippines

Five major soil series (Guimbalaon, Isabela, Luisiana, San Manuel, and Silay) in Negros Occidental were evaluated to assess the suitability of major soil series grown to sugarcane and identify possible constraints of the soils for sugarcane production. Specifically, the study assessed the morphological, physical, and chemical properties of soils associated with the growing of sugarcane; evaluated the land quality requirements for major soil series grown to sugarcane; determined the suitability of major soil series for sugarcane production; and evaluated the possible soil constraints to sugarcane production. Soil pH, total N, percent organic C, and available P were found highest in Isabela series; exchangeable K in Guimbalaon series; exchangeable Na, Ca, and Mg, extractable Fe, and CEC in San Manuel series; and exchangeable Al in Luisiana series. All of the soil series evaluated were classified as marginally suitable (S3) for sugarcane production, although soil constraints varied across soil series. Topography and wetness were the severe constraints common to all soil series. Limitations on fertility and physical soil characteristics were considered moderate and manageable.