Soil Science Collection

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Soil classification, pedogenesis and land evaluation in Kapini area Lusaka, Zambia.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1983) Kaltia,Cuulu
Back ground -information related to classification, pedogeneiis and laud evaluation is briefly given. It includes information on geology, geomorphology, topography, drainage, climate and vegetation. Literature on soil classification in relation to local and inter-■:n-3ti&2.yl classification systems is reviewed. Literature review on. pedogenesis critically focus on soil genesis work in Zambia in relation to important soil’ formng factors.International and local land evaluation systems are reviewed.together with concepts that are not used consistently and have often caused lots of confusion in land evaluation. The results of the study can briefly be summarised as follows: 1.The soils are classified, into four major orders:Ultisols, Alfisols and InceptIsols.Oxisols, (Soil Survey Staff 1975) or as Ferralsols, Luvisols, Acrisols, Hegosols and Lithosols (PJL.O./craESCO 1974). Classification is pursued up to the family level and sub-unit level respectively*. 2.The major processes which are important in pedogenesis are:Eluviation, illuviation, Cumilation, Pedoturbation, Desilication,Fertilization Decomposition and Synthesis.be the most important soil forming factor.Geology was found.to the most important soil forming factor. 3.Most of the soils in the area are moderately suitable to crop production (60^).- The major limitation to crop production are fertility (for the Oxisols), flooding, moisture availability, stoniness; and rooting depth« 4.Socio-economically the area is not suited to cash crop production at subsistence and intermediate management levels* 5.The area has a high potential for crop production especially with improved management.level'*
Soil survey amd land evaluation of a part of the university farm - Morogoro for rainfed agriculture
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1984) Mpepo,Haston Longwani James
Lack of a systematic and detailed soil survey and land evaluation report for guiding the utilization of the farm necessitated this study.About 1, 097 ha comprising the Northern part of trie farm was covered. It is possible to grow maize, sorghum, soyabeans, fieldbeans, ground- nuts and rice. J
Evaluation of Minjingu phosphate rock products as sources of phosphorus for maize and sorghum in some Morogoro and Hai soils
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1991) Kimbi, Gerald Gervas
Experiments effectiveness were partially of to evaluatethe acidulated phosphate rock conducted (PAPR) and non acidulated Minjingu phosphate rock (PR) as sources of for phosphorus maize and sorghum. Two studies was the test crop in the initial pot study and two field experiments were conducted.Maize in the field experiments while sorghum was used in the residual pot study.Five soils, namely Kwa Sadala, Mlama, Mafiga,Magadu and University Gate,varying widely in properties were used. Results of these experiments showed that all the P carriers increased yields in Mlama, Magadu and University Gate soils, indicating that the three soils were P deficient and thus required supplemental P. The KwaSadala and Mafiga soils, with high available P and nearly, neutral pH values, did not respond to either of the P sources.The initial PAPRs and results study indicated non ac i dulated PRs had the nearing that pot of University Gate that the fertilizer values TSPin soilsthe PAPRs and PRs were generally Mlama soil. In the Magadu and inferior to TSP. Results of the residual pot study showed that the PAPRs and PRs had superior residual effectiveness compared to TSP in Magadu, indicating that overMlama and time the P dissolved in the three soils.University Gate soils, carriers substantially
The effect of soil erosion on soil productivity under different management practices
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1996) Gebremedhin, Yemane Hallu
A study was conducted at Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania, to evaluate the effect of erosion soil on soil productivity different under management practices using 10mx5m runoff plots with a 4 percent slope. (BF) ,permanent cropping(RO ,coarse mesh The treatments consisted of bare grass fine (GP) , flat mesh (FM) ,cropping medium fallow(CP) ,mesh ridge(MM) , and (CM). The CP and RC were planted with maize with a population density of 41 600 plants/ha. The FM, MM,and CM were simulated canopy covers with net shading rates of 80, 55, and 40 percent, respectively, stretched 40 cm above the surface.Runoff generated during every rainstorm was collected for determining amount of runoff, soil and nutrient losses from each treatment. Soil samples from the runoff plots taken at the beginning (initial) study were analyzed for and end (final) changes properties. Amount of nutrient loss and eroded sediments were in soil of the chemical in the runoff water determined. Grain yield and biomass were determined for the cultivated treatments. Runoff ranged from 143.9 m3/ha in the GP to 2398 m3/ha in the BF. The runoff from the BF, significantly different from all (p<0.05) other treatments. Soil GP, CP, and CM were amongst themselves and loss was between 0.09 Mg/ha in the GP and 12.49 Mg/ha in the CP. There was no significant difference in soil loss between the BF and CP treatments but they differed significantly from all other treatments.Organic carbon showed a significant decrease in the final soil samples in the BF, GP, RC, and FM treatments, while TN decreased significantly (P<0.05)in the CP,RC,and phosphorus CM treatments.Likewise, available was significantly lower in the final soil samples in the GP, CP, and FM. Surprisingly, both Na*and CEC were significantly higher in the final soil sample in some of the treatments. The BF and CP treatments lost significantly (P<0.05) more OM, nitrogen, and Ca2+ than all other treatments. The loss in AVP, K+, and significantly different Mg2+ the from (P<0.05) BF and CP were amongst themselves and from all other treatments.There was no significant difference in maize grain yield and biomass between the CP and RC. However, grain yield and biomass were higher in the RC treatment. Based on the results of this study, it has been shown that increasing canopy cover reduces nutrient losses. In addition, the runoff, ridges soil,were able and to effectively check soil erosion.
Response of maize to phosphate released from Minjingu phosphate rock and farm yard manure applications in an oxic haplustult
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1997) Kitua, M.J.Y.
A glasshouse pot experiment was carried out to investigate the (Zea maize of response mays L combinations of MPR-Farm yard manure (FYM) applied to an Oxic Haplustult. were 0, .7.5,)to various (kraal manure),The rates of FYM applied 15 and 30 g/kg and the rates of MPR were 0, 50, 100, and 150 mg P/kg soil. The MPR-manure combinations were incubated seeds.The one for month showed results before an the sowing increase maize Bray-1-in an increase in dry extractable P by 8.3 mg P/kg soil, matter yields of 27.3 g/kg soil and phosphate uptake by 0.13%. The above increases were attributed to the P released from the solubilization of MPR and decomposition and mineralization of the farm yard manure.The small increases in Bray-lextractable phosphate increased with increasing indicate time of the gradual contact between solubilization, soil-MPR and FYM decomposition and mineralization of MPR and FYM, respectively. Response by crops to phosphate released from MPR-FYM-combinat ions' would be more pronounced when applied to the soil 6 to 12 months before planting, to ensure optimal solubilization and decomposition of the MPR and FYM, respectively.
Pedological investigation and characterization in Litembo village, Mbinga district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1997) Meliyo, Joel L.
A pedological investigation was carried out in Litembo village, Mbinga district (Tanzania) to identify the various soil types and characterize them in terms of their physical, chemical and mineralogical properties. The soils were classified according to FAO-Unesco and USDA Soil Taxonomy systems. On the basis of soil and other ecological parameters the potentials and constraints of the land resources were assessed. Standard soil survey methods and laboratory procedures were utilised to generate both field and laboratory data. Results indicate that Litembo village has four major landforms i.e. plateaux, hills, piedmonts and valleys Most piedmont soils are deep to very deep having dark brown to dark reddish brown sandy clay topsoils and dark red to red clayey subsoils. The hills and plateaux have shallow sandy clay loam soils. All the studied soils are well drained to excessively well drained except those of the valley bottoms which are poorly drained. Topsoil bulk densities range from 0.99 to 1.2 Mg m'3 whereas subsoil values are slightly higher. Total porosity ranges from 56 to 72% in the topsoils and from 40 to 53% in the subsoils. Topsoils have lower penetrometer resistance (PR values 0.1 to 0.28 MPa) than subsoil (PR values 3.97 - 5.52 MPa). Available water capacity (AWC) of most topsoils ranges from 15 to 25% by volume and the values decrease slightly with depth. AWC per meter range from 125 to 177 mm which is medium to high. General soil fertility status is poor. Soil reaction is very strongly acid to strong acid with pH values between 4.4 and 5.4 in topsoils and 4.4 and 6.0 in subsoils. Total nitrogen ranges from very low to medium (< 0.03 - 0.3); phosphorus, bases, CEC and base saturation are low. OC ranges from low to very high in topsoils and very low in subsoils. The clay mineralogy is dominantly kaolinitic with accessory amounts of gibbsite and goethite. The piedmont soils classified as Ferric Acrisols, Haplic Acrisols and Humic Acrisols, plateau soils classified as Humic Acrisols; soils of the as Dystnc Leptosols and Haplic Acrisols and valley bottom soils as Umbric Fluvisols. From the results of this study it is concluded that Litembo soils developed under intensive leaching environment, facilitated by a mountainous/hilly topography. Fertility status is poor, and due to steep slopes and weak soil structure Litembo soils are prone to erosion. The traditional farming system (ngoro) seems to control soil erosion on steep slopes. It is recommended that steep slopes should be planted with trees that will protect soil from erosion. Use of the traditional farming system (ngoro) should be encouraged. Due to low soil fertility status, use of fertilizers both artificial and organic manures is recommended Non-acidifying fertilizers should be preferable because of the low soil pH values. The study area lacks climatic data. More research in this line is recommended. Research on different land use alternatives which can sustainably be applicable in the village should be carried out.
Effects of selected insecticides on microbial numbers,leucaena decomposition and biological nitrogen fixation
(Sokoine university of Agriculture, 1997) Ng'ang'a, Josephine Nyambura
The effects of Lannate and Karate on the decomposition of leucaena green manure and nitrogen fixation by cowpea were evaluated, after establishing their inhibitory effects on the decomposer microorganisms and their toxic effects on the bradyrhizobia in vitro.In the decomposition experiment,manure the in in the perforated plastic litter bags was buried (10 cm) soil contained in wooden troughs and the insecticides were applied on the soil at final concentrations of 0.5 and 1.5 ppm for lannate or and 0.51.0 ppm for decomposition process was monitored at 0, after weeks matter, and incubation by measuring residual organic carbon,inorganic-N heterotrophic content microbial of count karate.1, the 5 and 73,residual dry residual total nitrogen was the soil.The determined total at each sampling time.The effects of these insecticides each at 0.5 and 1.5 ppm on the covrpea-Bradyrhizobium symbiotic relationship were assessed in potted soil. Cowpeas were grown and harvested after 35 days. Nodule numbers and dry weight,shoot dry weight and nitrogen content were assessed.Results of these studies indicated that lannate and karate had an apparent depressive effect on the growth of the heterotrophs at the 0.5 ppm concentration but not at higher concentrations. The bradyrhizobial proliferation invitro was more affected by lannate than karate. However, nodulation and nitrogen fixation was not affected by any of the insecticides at significantly any of the the two concentrations tested.It was concluded from this study that insecticides, when applied even up to ten times the field recommended rate have no profound effects heterotrophic microorganisms, their ability to on the decompose leucaena green manure and on biological nitrogen fixationin cowpeas. However, the very severe depressive effect of lannate on the cowpea-bradyrhizobia in vitro, may warrant further studies in soils.
The effect of seed factors and the duration seed remains in soil before the onset of rains on establishment of maize and sorghum
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1997) Tarimo,Bartholomew Donat
A study was undertaken to: (a) assess the seed quality in commercial and farmers planting seed,(b) extent of seed ageing in storage and (c)investigate the monitor the effect of length of time seed remain in soil before onset of rains on establishment of maize (Zea mays (L) and sorghum (Sorghum bi color (L). Seed of three cultivars of maize (Staha, TMV-1, and Kito) and one sorghum cultivar(Tegemeo) were from bought Tanzania Seed Company (TANSEED), Morogoro branchz and from farmers around Morogoro Municipality. The bought seed was stored alongside TANSEED and farmer's seed. Initially, seed samples from each lot and each farmerz were taken to the laboratory for refrigeration to minimize ageing and hence to serve as control. Acquired seed was initially subjected to a germination test to assess its quality as a planting material.Germination test were conducted in a sandbox set at a matric suction of IkPa. The study on the effect of length of time seeds remain in soil before the onset of rains on establishment was conducted both in glasshouse and in the field using high,medium and low vigour seeds.High vigour seeds were the fresh / imaged seed samples from the seed lots.Medium and low vigour seeds were obtained by artificial ageing of fresh seed for 2 and 3 days respectively.Planting, both in the glasshouse and in the field was done at an interval of 3 days z that is 0 r 3, 6, 9, 121 15 days.Watering was on the 15th day with an equivalent of 20mm of rainfall. Seeds from TANSEED had ranging from 93 to 100%, initial germination percentage (maize) and 92 to 96% (sorghum)・Seeds from farmers had gemination percentage varying from 64 to 99% (maize) and 8 to 65% (sorghum)・seeds from TANSEED had relatively capacity than those from farmers. Higher germination Seeds from farmers had high initial seed moisture content (SMC) seed. Overall sorghum than commercial Sorghum had higher SMC than maize irrespective of the source ・Initial SMC was about 10 and 11% for maize and sorghum respectively.At the end of the studyz SMC had increased to an average of 12 and 14% for maize and sorghum respectively. Time to 50% germination (T50) increased with storage time for seeds obtained from TANSEED. maize cv St aha lot A were 2.2,T50 values (in days) for (initially) , 2.4 one month) and 2.7 after two months)・(after Seeds from farmers showed no consistent trend.In both field and glasshouse emerged earlier than maize seeds.studies,sorghum seeds Sorghum seeds started emerging 3 days after watering whereas for maize emergence started on the 4th day.The length of time seed remained in the soil(dry planting)had no effect on percentage emergence in the glasshouse experiment. Under field conditions percentage emergence decreased with the length of time seed remained in soil before watering.High vigour maize seeds had relatively higher proportion of seeds categories.which emerged than Insorghum,medium and low vigour the other two vigour seeds performed better in terms of emergence than high vigour seeds.The average shoot length for maize 10 days after watering varied from 157mm to 238mm and 90.7mm to 248mm for the glasshouse and field experiments respectively.Sorghum seedlings grown in the glasshouse had mean shoot lengths varying from 121mm to 172mm and the mean values recorded in the field varied from 63mm to 101mm.
Factors influencing adoption of soil conservation technologies in Tanzania: A case study in Gairo
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1999) Kalineza, H. M. M.; Mdoe, N. S. Y.; Mlozi, R. S. M.
Factors that influence smallholder farmers’ decision to adopt soil conservation practices were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression model. Data for the study were collected from 114 randomly selected households from four villages in Gairo division. The results of descriptive analysis suggest that farmers who obtained knowledge on soil conservation through extension/training seminars as well as those with secure land ownership are likely to adopt soil conservation technologies. Two broad policy implications emerge from the findings of this study. The first implication is that there is a need to provide extension education that demonstrate relative benefits of various land conservation technologies to stimulate their adoption. The second implication which emerge from the significance of land provides rights of owning land among smallholder farmers. Secure land rights will promote investments on land such as adoption of soil conservation practices.
Influence of shapes of the Ngoro on depression storage and crop performance.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1999) Mogasa Pili Mogasa
A field experiment was conducted in the 1995/1996 growing season on a slope of 30% on the foothill of the Uluguru Mountains in Morogoro, Tanzania. The aim of the experiment was to evaluate the influence of various Shapes of the ngoro cultivation system on (i) soil moisture storage (ii) depression storage and (iii) maize growth parameters and yield. Three Shapes of the ngoro pits namely: Shape 1 (Rectangular with the longest side across the slope), Shape 2 (Rectangular with the longest side along the slope) and Shape 3 (Square) were compared with flat cultivation, a common practice in the study area. The various ngoro Shapes stored at least 1.36 times more soil moisture than flat cultivation (significant at the 5% level). The position of the ridge on the four sides of the pit had no significant effect on soil moisture storage (P < 0.05). Ngoro cultivation showed significantly higher amounts of soil organic matter (41% to 53%) than flat cultivation which had the lowest (about 6% organic matter, P < 0.05). Top soil (0 - 10 cm) had 15% organic matter (o.m.) compared to 7% and 6% o.m. at a depth of 10- 20 cm and 20-30 cm, respectively. Bulk density was significantly lower in the ngoro compared with flat cultivation (P < 0.05). Shapel had significantly (about 27%) lower depression storage compared to Shapes 2 and 3 (P < 0.05). Ngoro cultivation produced about 66% more grain than flat cultivation. This yield difference was significant (P < 0.05). The position of the ridge on the slope had no significant effect on maize growth and grain yield (p < 0.05). Therefore, if the aim is to improve maize performance in the study area any Shape of the ngoro can be employed as found out from this study.
Land suitability assessment of the Wami plains in Morogoro, Tanzania with respect to the production of the main food crops and extensive grazing.
(Sokoine university of Agriculture, 2000) Kileo,Emmanuel P.
ABSTRACT A study was conducted at Wami Plains in Morogoro to assess the suitability of land for the production of the main food crops and for extensive grazing. Field land resources survey was conducted covering an area of 35,810 hectares. Soil profiles were excavated, studied and sampled for laboratory analysis. Soils of Wami Plains are mostly well drained,sandy clay loams, except on the valley bottoms, floodplains and mbuga where they are poorly drained. They have low to medium available water capacity (83 - 135 mm/m) except profile NYN-P7 which has high available water capacity (164 mm/m). The soils are generally poor in chemical fertility. The levels of nitrogen range from very low (0.04%) to low (0.17%) while those of organic carbon are between low (0.66%) to medium (1.46%). Available phosphorus contents range between low to medium (0.96-16 0 mg/kg) The level of micronutrients in these soils is adequate except for Zn which is rated as inadequate for most crops. The soils were classified according to both FAO-World Reference Base and USDA Soil Taxonomy systems. The FAO-WRB soil names with their mapping units in brackets are as follows: Chromi-Rhodic Cambisols and Hapli-Hypocalcic Calcisols (Alluvial fan); Rhodi-Profondic Lixisols (Ridge summits); Rhodi-Profondic Lixisols (Ridge slopes with red soils); Hypereutri-Ferralic Cambisols (Ridge slopes with sandy soils); Hypereutri-Mollic Fluvisols and Calcari-Mollic Cambisols (Valley bottoms); Chromi-Profondic Lixisols and Hapli-I-Iypocalcic Calcisols (Flats with red soils); Calcari-Mollic Fluvisols (Flats with sandy soils); Hypocalci-Endosodic Calcisols (Floodplains) and Endosodi-Pellic Vertisols (Mbuga). Three land utilisation types (LUTs) (maize, rice and extensive grazing) were selected for land suitability evaluation and the results of physical suitability evaluation are as follows: About 38% of the area was classified as moderately suitable, 44% marginally suitable and 18% physically not suitable for maize production. As for rice production, about 55% of the area was classified as marginally suitable and 45% is physically not suitable for the LUT. About 84% of the area was classified as moderately suitable for extensive grazing while only 16% is marginally suitable for the LUT. Major limitations in these soils are: nutrient availability and retention, moisture availability, flooding hazards, oxygen availability to roots and biological hazards.
Preliminary characterization of some streptomyces species from four Tanzanian soils and their antimicrobial potential against selected plant and animal pathogenic bacteria
(World Journal of Microbiology & Biotechnology, 2000-05-02) Ndonde, M. J. M; Semu, E
This study was undertaken to characterize Streptomyces strains occurring in some soils of Tanzania as well as to evaluate their potential to synthesize antimicrobial compounds. Six main classes of isolates were observed according to the colour of aerial mycelium. These were gray, cream, blue, pink, red, and white. The gray colour class dominated. About 65% of the isolates produced soluble pigments of various colours while about 33% of the isolates did not produce any soluble pigments. Brown coloured soluble pigments dominated. About 57% of the isolates had spiral spore chains. Some Streptomyces isolates displayed strong (>30 mm inhibition zone), moderate (20±30 mm), or weak (<20 mm) antibiosis against the plant/animal pathogenic bacteria tested. Other isolates did not show any antibiosis against any of the test pathogens. The plant pathogens CMM IPO 542 (Clavibacter michiganensis ssp. michiganensis) and Xanthomonas vascatoria were inhibited by most of the Streptomyces isolates. Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae and X. campestris were inhibited by the least number of the Streptomyces isolates. Most of the animal pathogens tested seemed to show resistance to the antibiotics produced by some of the Streptomyces isolates which had shown high activity against the plant pathogens.
Land resources inventory and suitability assessment for the major land use types in Morogoro urban district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2001) Msanya, B. M.; Kimaro, D. N.; Kileo, E. P.; Kimbi, G. G.; Mbogoni, Joseph J. D. J.
Land resources inventory and suitability assessment of Morogoro Urban District was carried out to asses the potentials and constraints of the various land units for the production of smallholder low input rainfed maize, rice, sorghum, beans, banana and vegetables. The study covered a total area of approximately 52,125 ha. Morogoro Urban District is situated almost at the heart of Morogoro District, between latitudes 6 o 37 and 6 o 55S and longitudes 37 o 33 and 37 o 51E. The district is bordered by Uluguru Mountains on the south eastern side and Mindu and Nguru ya Ndege hills on the western side. A bigger part of the district comprises plains of various forms and areal extent. Relief and slope aspect have a great influence on the climate of the district. Areas higher in the landscape such as the Morningside are cooler than those lower in the landscape such as Tungi. The trend of rainfall reveals a similar influence of altitude on rainfall. Rainfall is higher at high altitudes and tends to be lower at low altitudes. Areas on the leeward side of the Uluguru Mountains receive relatively lower rainfall than those on the windward side. The onset dates for rainfall are unreliable, although the rainy season continues for 4 to 5 months. During the growing period, rainfall is lowest in the month of May whereas peak rainfall is normally received in April. Climatic data of the district reveal a gradual decrease in rainfall from the east towards the west and northwest. In the Tungi-Mkonowamara areas a rather dry condition prevails. The SUA-Kingolwira areas receive relatively more rainfall than Tungi-Mkonowamara area. This trend can be attributed to the rainshadow effect of the Uluguru Mountains. The geology of Morogoro Urban District comprises four major rock/lithology types. These include hornblende-pyroxene granulites, muscovite-biotite gneiss and migmatites, colluvium and alluvium. The hornblende-pyroxene granulites are the dominant rock types and occupy the major part of the Uluguru Mountains and foothills. The dominant minerals in these rocks are calcium-rich plagioclase, hypersthene ((Mg,Fe)SiO 3 ) and diopside (Ca,MgSi 2 O 6 ). The muscovite-biotite gneisses and migmatites are dominant in the Mindu-Lugala hills and a bigger part of the Tungi-Mkonowamara peneplains. They are of a high metamorphic grade containing equal amounts of potassium-feldspars (microcline) and sodium-rich plagioclase (oligoclase). Quartz is present in fairly high amounts. Colluvial materials of diverse mineralogical composition dominate most of the piedmont slopes and peneplains. Alluvial materials are dominant in the river terraces and flood plains. Climate and its effects on geological processes influence evolution of landforms in the study area. Marked influence on landforms by water erosion as well as colluvio-alluvial processes were observed in the field and through soil profile development. In the current study, six major landform types were identified in the district. The landforms of the Uluguru Mountains display a marked variation in altitude, relief and intensity of dissection. The strongly dissected ridges (1500-2000 m asl) are a manifestation ofMsanya et al. v intense erosion in form of mass movements. The Uluguru mountain foothills (600-900 m asl) are predominantly steep convex slopes. The Mindu-Lugala hills situated at an altitude range of 700-1100 m asl are strongly dissected with hilly topography. The Mzinga-Bigwa piedmonts consist of glacis and alluvial fans. They are gently sloping and are characterised by moderate to severe erosion. Extensive areas of alluvial fans and hill wash sands are found around the strongly dissected Mindu-Lugala hills. Whereas the piedmont slopes associated with the Uluguru Mountains are gently undulating, those of the Mindu-Lugala hills have an undulating topography. Other major important landforms in the district are the peneplains which are situated at an altitude of 300-600 m asl. The peneplains consist of ridge summits and slopes alternating with narrow valley bottoms. The valleys, being flat to almost flat with river terraces and flood plains occurring at an altitudes lower than 400 m asl. Climate, landform patterns and parent materials have had profound influence on types and distribution of soils in the district. Soil profile development reveals marked influence of mass removal of soils by water erosion particularly mass movements in the mountains and colluvio-alluvial processes in the piedmont slopes and peneplains. There is a considerable variation in soil depth, texture, drainage condition and soil chemical properties among the landform units. The mountain ridge slopes have relatively shallow soils and gravely soil textures. This can be attributed to severe erosion caused by mass removal of soil materials mainly by high rainfall. The piedmont slopes and peneplains with colluvial material derived from granulites and mixed gneisses have very deep soils with high amounts of clay content. This is due to constant addition of new soil materials and in situ weathering coupled with low rate of erosion. Landforms associated with migmatites like Mindu-Lugala piedmont slopes and Tungi Mkonowamara peneplains have the highest amount of sand content. This can be explained by the nature of the parent materials which are richer in felsic minerals. Valley soils have medium textures and are stratified as a result of cyclic deposition of materials of diverse origin. The mineralogy of the soils of the Uluguru Mountains, the piedmont slopes and the peneplains are mainly kaolinitic. The soils of the mountain ridges have high content of gibbsite in the clay fraction, which can be attributed to rapid weathering and strong leaching caused by high rainfall and excessive drainage. Soils of the river terraces and flood plains have relatively high contents of smectite and illite in the clay fraction, revealing the relative young age of the soils. Soils of the mountains are slightly acidic to acidic (pH<5.5). Piedmonts have nearly neutral reaction (pH 6.0-7.5) except for the glacis which are strongly acidic (pH<5.5). Most soils of the peneplains are moderately acid except for those associated with migmatites, which are strongly acid (pH<5.5). Valleys have nearly neutral to alkaline soils with ESP ranging between 5 and 37%. Organic carbon and nitrogen levels for all soils are very low with values less than 1.0% and 0.1% respectively. Available P is alsoMsanya et al. vi low (<5 mg/kg). Nutrient retention capacity of soils is low (CEC <12 cmol(+)/kg) except in the valleys where nutrient retention is high (CEC 20-30 cmol(+)/kg ). According to FAO-World Reference Base nine major soil types were identified and classified. The soils of the strongly dissected mountain ridge slopes are Leptosols, Lixisols, Luvisols and Cambisols. Dominant soils on the piedmonts and peneplains are Lixisols and Acrisols while the ridge side slopes on the peneplains have soils classified as Cambisols. The soils of the river terraces and flood plains are Fluvisols, Vertisols and Gleysols while those of the Mindu hills and surrounding areas are classified as Leptosols, Cambisols and Arenosols. Six major land utilisation types namely; smallholder low input rainfed maize, rice, sorghum, beans, bananas and vegetables were identified and evaluated in Morogoro Urban District. Land suitability classification indicates that, none of the land mapping units is highly suitable for all the studied land utilisation types. This is because its natural fertility has been depleted over time through leaching, erosion and nutrient mining through continuous cropping. Among the six LUTs, vegetable production was more suited to the area for it could be grown in about 80% of the area. Beans rank the second followed by maize. Sorghum was found to be the fourth LUT in the area while rice was the least. Moisture supply soil fertility and erosion hazards are among the most limiting factors for production of most crops in the area. Deliberate efforts should be taken to establish critical zones for afforestation, reduce burning through introduction of by laws and appropriate training programmes, use of grass barriers and cultivation of perennial crops. Further research on soil erosion particularly mass movements, gullying and sheet wash is prerequisite in order to come up with acceptable soil conservation packages for the district. It is strongly suggested that emphasis should be put on the use of organic and non acidifying fertilisers and afforestation of hilltops. Use of indigenous fertilisers such as rock phosphate and manures could immensely contribute to the improvement of soil fertility in Morogoro Urban District. Water harvesting techniques, growing of drought tolerant crops and use of organic fertilisers will improve the sustainability of agricultural production in the area. The focus should be on the use of integrated nutrient management techniques. Provision of drainage systems in the poorly drained areas will control and keep the ground water levels low. This will also enhance regular flushing of the soils thus avoiding the building up of harmful levels of salts. Saline soils could also be managed through proper crop selection and planting of saline tolerant crops. Sorghum withstands poor drainage condition and can cope very well with drought and saline conditions.Msanya et al. vii Frequent floods especially by the Ngerengere river could be reduced by flood protection works like construction of ditches and dikes with outlets to the present natural drainage system. Agricultural mechanisation and use of organic fertilisers will in the long run improve soil structure of the lands in the district and ultimately enhance soil workability.
Effectiveness of Minjingu phosphate rock as a source of phosphorus for lowland rice production in selected soils of Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2001) Mzee, Omari
This study was done to assess the effectiveness of Minjingu phosphate rock as a source of phosphorus for lowland rice production in selected soils of Tanzania. The study included soils from five sites for pot experiment and one of those sites was also used for a field experiment. Treatments tested were two sources of P namely MPR and TSP each applied at rales of 0, 40 and 160 mg P/kg, and 0, 20 and 60 kg P/ha under pot and field experiments, respectively. In both pot and field experiments, hosphorus released from all the treatments subsequent to flooding was determined by the Pi method and compared with P uptake, dry matter and grain yields of rice (Variety Kahogo-red). The relative agronomic effectiveness (RAE) of MPR relative to TSP was also determined. In the pot experiment, P application at high rate significantly increased drymatter yields by 33% to 498% relative to control. The performances of MPR and TSP were comparable in four soils (Lupilo, Ruvu-A, Ruvu-B and Kimani) whereas TSP did better than MPR in Michenga soil. Minjingu PR and TSP (high P application) were also comparable in improving P contents of plants. The RAE of MPR was high in Lupilo (95%), Michenga (82%), Ruvu-A (80) and Kimani (100%) soils while in Ruvu-B soil (68%) RAE was low. Extractable P after four weeks of flooding increased by 12 to 145% in four soils (Lupilo, Michenga, Ruvu-A and Kimani). In a field trial at Kimani, phosphorus application gave a nonsignificant increase in grain yield over the control and this was attributed to an appreciable increase in available P (from 5.14 to 10.10 mg/kg) after 42 days of flooding. Crop P concentration and uptake increased with application rates but the P sources (MPR and TSP) had comparable effects. Application of P did not increaseiii extractable P significantly. It is therefore concluded that MPR has the potential to supply P for rice production in Lupilo, Michenga, Ruvu-A and Kimani soils and others with similar properties.
Site evaluation for factory construction in Kingolwira area, Morogoro, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2001) Msanya, B. M.; Kimaro, D. N.
UNNAT is a Company based in Mwanza (P.O. Box 2964). Recently the Company has acquired a piece of land of an area of about 58 acres (23.2 ha) in Morogoro at Kingolwira area where they are intending to construct a fruit-processing factory. The project Coordinator Mr. B.C. Thakore made several contacts with the Sokoine University of Agriculture to seek advice and expertise on the development of the site. Mr. Thakore (hereinafter referred to as “client”) has consulted Prof. B.M. Msanya and Mr. D.N. Kimaro of P.O. Box 3008, SUA, Morogoro (hereinafter referred to as “consultants”) to carry out the study.
Effectiveness of Fanya Chini terraces on soil properties and crop yield in the north-wester!' part of the Uluguru mountains, Morogoro, Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2001) Mkoba, Appia Paul
A field experiment was conducted in the north-western part of the Uluguru Mountains, Morogoro District, to determine the effect of Fanya chini terraces on selected soil chemical and physical properties and crop performance. Eighteen experimental plots of 12 m x 3 m were established on farmers' fields. Plots with Fanya chini terraces were compared with those with no conservation structures. Maize (Zea mays L.) was used as the test crop. No inorganic fertiliser was applied in order to reflect farmers’ practices in the area. Soil samples from the experimental plots taken at the beginning (initial) and at the end (final) of the study were analysed to assess the changes in soil physical and chemical characteristics that had occurred during the cropping period. Most of the observed soil chemical variables were slightly (but insignificantly) higher in plots that had no conservation structures (unconserved plots) and their magnitude tended to increase along the slope. Organic carbon, total nitrogen and exchangeable calcium showed a significant increase (P = 0.05) in unconserved plots in the final soil samples. There was a significant difference (P = 0.01) in PR between the Fanya chini terraced plots and unconserved plots both at the beginning and at the end of the experiment. Fanya chini terraced plots had mean PR value of 0.69 and 1.81 MPa compared to unconserved plots which had mean PR values of 0.78 and 1.71 MPa at the beginning and at the end of the experiment, respectively. Maize grain yield and biomass were not significantly different between the Fanya chini terraced and unconserved plots. However, grain yield and biomass were relatively higher in the unconserved plots and they tended to increase along the slope. The exposure and spread of the subsoil from the Fanya chini channels that were about 30 to 50 cm deep may have resulted into the reduced soil fertility and the resultant lower yield observed under Fanya chini terraces. Fanya chini terraces are not the best soil conservation measure on steep slopes. Where they are already in place, Fanya chini terraces should be complemented with other soil surface management practices.
Impact of soil conservation measures on the properties and productivity of volcanic soils on the slopes of mount Meru, Arusha, Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2001) Ngatoluwa,Ramadhan Thabit
A study was conducted to examine the effect of soil conservation measures on soil properties and productivity of volcanic soils on the slopes of Mount Meru, Arusha Region. The experiment was conducted on 27 plots in two agroecological zones namely: medium (1,400-metres above sea level (m.a.s.l.) and high (1,700 m.a.s.l.) altitude zones. Two commonly used soil conservation measures, Fanya Juu and Contour bunds, were tested against non-conserved plots. The effect of soil conservation measures on soil properties was examined by collecting and analyzing soil samples from all treatments. The effect of soil conservation measures on soil productivity was assessed by planting common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris var. Lyamungo 85) as the test crop. Soil conservation measures had no significant effect on the surface soil chemical properties namely: pH, CEC, exchangeable bases, total nitrogen, available phosphorous and organic matter. The depth of Ap horizon in the conserved plots was not significantly different from one another (P=0.05). However, unconserved plots registered the lowest topsoil depth and they were significantly different from conserved plots. Bean yield differed significantly (P=0.05) due to the effect of soil conservation measures. There was no interaction (P=0.05) between conservation treatments and their respective position in the agroecological zone.Mean bean yield ranged from 0.789 Mg ha'1 in unconserved to 1.367 Mg ha'1 in Fanya Juu terraced plots. Fanya Juu treatments significantly out-yielded (P=0.05) Contour bund plots by 0.127 Mg ha'1. A similar trend was observed for dry matter yield. Dry matter yield differed significantly (P=0.05) due to treatment effect. Fanya Juu terracing resulted in two folds grain yield compared to control. The highest dry matter yield was registered in Fanya Juu plots, followed by that from Contour bunplots while unconserved plots produced the lowest yield. Mutiple regression analysis showed that depth of topsoil (Ap-horizon) significantly affected bean yield (P=0.01, r=0.64). Depth of topsoil and surface available phosphorous were regressed against bean yield and it was found that the thickness of the Ap horizon had higher impact on bean yield compared to surface available phosphorous (P=0.01 and R=0.78). Soil moisture profile (0-90 cm) in conserved plots differed significantly (P=0.05) from that in unconserved plots. Conserved plots had higher profile moisture content throughout the growing season. However, soil moisture profile did not differ significantly (P=0.05) between Fanya Juu and Contour bund plots. This suggests that the two conservation measures have similar effect on soil water conservation. The results from this study confirm the importance of soil conservation measures on Ap horizon development, water holding capacity and crop yield.
Cyanosoils project site and soil characterization
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2002) Msanya, B. M.; Kimaro, D. N.; Maliondo, S. M. S.; Semu, E.; Madoffe, S. S.; Mvena, Z. K. S.
The objective of the study was to select sites for the Cyanosoils project and to characterize the soils on which experiments will be carried out. Through field visits and studies three sites were identified and described in Morogoro Urban and Mvomero Districts. Soil profiles were excavated, described and sampled for laboratory analyses.
Principles of soil classification
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2003) Msanya, B. M.
Assessment of in-situ rainwater harvesting techniques for improving smallholder maize production in semi arid areas of Morogoro, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2003) Bwana,Thomas Nestory
A study was conducted at Morogoro, Tanzania during long rains ('Masika') to evaluate the effect of in~situ rainwater harvesting (RWH) techniques in improving maize yield. Three commonly used techniques, ridging after planting (RA), ridging before planting (RJB), and tied ridging (TR) were tested against a no tillage practice locally known as "kuberega" (K) on an Oxic Paleustalf soil with maize (Zea maize L.) variety TMV1 as the test crop. Daily rainfall was recorded and the total rainfall received during the 2001/02 growing season was 562 mm with a series of dry spells. Moisture content at 0-15 and 15-30 cm depth was measured twice weekly. Significantly (p<0.05) higher soil moisture variation and lower moisture content were noted in treatment K than in the other treatments. Treatments RB and TR had lower moisture variations and higher moisture content throughout the season. Grain yield, biomass, plant height, bulk density, infiltration rates (on the ridge and in the furrow), runoff and soil loss were also measured. Significant differences were observed among the treatments (p<0.05) in runoff, soil loss, on ridge infiltration, grain yield, and biomass. The maize yield ranged between 2.97 Mg/ha and 3.89 Mg/ha for treatments K and RB, respectively. The runoff loss was highest for K and least for TR. Treatments K and RA did not differ significantly from each other but differed significantly from RB and TR (p<0.05). Soil loss had a similar trend as that of runoff. More runoff loss was recorded early than late in the season. On ridge infiltration was not significantly different for treatments TR, RA, and RB but was significantly higher than the control (K) at (p<0.05). On furrow infiltration, however, had a reverse order with K having higher rates. Bulk density in both depths (0-15 and higher bulk density. The results show that ridges are effective in-situ rainwater harvesting technique that conserves water and soil and improves productivity.However, ridging after planting is inferior to both ridging before planting and tied ridging.15-30 cm) was not statistically different (p<0.05), however treatment K had slightl

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