Potential of Soils for Sugarcane Cropping under Tropical Savanna Climate in Nong Bua Lam Phu Province, Upper Northeast Thailand

Abstract

A study on potential of soils for growing sugarcane in Nong Bua Lam Phu Province, Upper Northeast, Thailand was carried out on ten selected areas. Methods of study included analysis of soil morphology in the field, laboratory analysis on physical and chemical properties and mineralogical characteristics of soil samples according to standard methods. Assessment of soil fertility status and soil fertility capability was included by considering sugarcane crop’s requirements. Results of the study revealed that Nong Bua Lam Phu Province has rather extensive upland and semi-lowland areas under agriculture uses. They are on middle plain terrace. The soils developed on wash deposits overlying residuum derived from sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. They are very deep, moderately to highly developed soils. Their texture ranges from loamy to clayey with clay accumulation in subsoils and some areas have plinthite. They have moderately high bulk density. Their pH ranges from extremely acid to extremely alkaline (pH 4.4–8.7). Plant nutrient level are moderate. Secondary nutrients do not pose any restriction for sugarcane cultivation. Their major problem micronutrient is low level of zinc. Their clay fraction is dominated by vermiculite and kaolinite. Most of the soils have low fertility. Their fertility capability classification unit is La-k with main constraints as aluminum toxicity and low-K reserve.