Abstract

A study of the micronutrient status of soils of Billiri was carried out at 55 different locations. The objective of the study was to evaluate the status of micronutrients and their relationship with soil properties. Soil sample were collected at 0 to 30 cm depth and analyzed forDiethylenetriamine penta acetic acid DPTA extractable micronutrients (iron, Fe, manganese, Mn, zinc, Zn, and copper, Cu). The DPTA extractable Fe, Cu, Zn ranged from 10.31 to 20.17, 4.04 to 8.43, 2.63 to 7.02 and 10.8 to 26.74 mgkg^-1 soil respectively. All soil samples had adequate amount of micronutrients. DPTA extractable Fe gave negative non significant correlation with soil properties; Mn gave negative significant correlation with pH, clay, CEC and organic carbon while Cu and Zn were positively significantly correlated with pH, clay, cation exchange capacity (CEC) and organic carbon. Since all values were above the critical limits, there is no threat of Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn deficiency in the soils. Deficiency is however likely to develop with continuous cropping and poor fertilizer management.

Key words: Micronutrients, soil properties, pedogenic, geologic.