Soil fertility and leaf nutrient content of mango orchard in Northern Bénin

Abstract

In Benin, mango functions as a vital fruit crop and a key subsistence crop for smallholder farmers. However, its yield is below the world average. Nutritional constraints in the soil could be one of the limiting factors for achieving the potential yield in this crop. In order to start a database on nutrients under a mango tree in Benin, this study was initiated to access the soil and leaf nutrient content. Soil and leaf analysis of 30 mango trees chosen in 3 orchards around Parakou municipality indicated that soils had pH of 6.1 to 6.4. Organic carbon content of most of soil samples were high (18 – 35 g.kg^-1). Soils were nitrogen and phosphorus deficiencies with high Potassium and Magnesium content. Elsewhere, leave nitrogen and potassium content present a high-level range from 12 to 18 g.kg^-1 and 13 to 24 g.kg^-1respectively with a normal rate of phosphorus. The study emphasizes a sustainable organic matter management of soil orchards in order to maintain the sound health of the soil through integrated nutrient management systems in the orchard of this area for improving the productivity of mango trees.