Characterization and suitability evaluation of representative rubber-growing soils of Nigeria

This study was conducted to characterize the soils supporting rubber in Nigeria with a view to evaluating their suitability and constraints for rubber production. The results obtained showed that the soils of the rubber belt are very deep and well-drained with sandy to sandy clay loam texture. The soils are acidic with pH ranging from 4.0 to 5.5. There are no hardpans or impermeable layers and the terrains are almost flat to gently sloping (0-5%). The structure are weak to moderate granular, subangular and angular blocky with friable soil consistence. They are generally of poor nutrient status. The suitability ranking of the soils for rubber production was of the order:Okhuo and Iyanomo> Akwete. Odagwa> Calabar while the productivity ranking was in the order Calabar> Okhuo and Benin> Akwete> Odagwa.