Al-Hikmah University Journal

Soil quality can be assessed by measuring soil properties, otherwise known as soil indicators. This study assessed soil quality in selected sites at Malete, Moro Local Government area of Kwara state, by evaluating its physical and chemical properties. Soil samples were collected from farmland and forestland sites in Malete, Kwara State. Physical and chemical properties, including pH, nitrogen, potassium, sodium, magnesium, phosphorus, organic carbon, organic matter, water holding capacity, cation exchange capacity, soil porosity, and bulk density, were determined using standard procedures and methodologies. A t-test was used to analyze significant differences (p<0.05) between the two locations. The results showed that forestland soils had a neutral pH (7.09), while farmland soils were slightly acidic (pH 6.93). Farmland had higher nitrogen (0.27%), potassium (1.22 mg/kg), and sodium (0.26 mg/kg) compared to forestland soils, although these differences were not significant. Forestland soils had significantly higher magnesium (2.14 mg/kg), available phosphorus (29.52 mg/kg), and cation exchange capacity (5.78). Farmland soils exhibited significantly higher total organic carbon (2.70 mg/kg), organic matter (4.66 mg/kg), and water-holding capacity. Forestland soils had higher porosity (68.15%) and bulk density (2.52 g/cm³) than farmland. The results highlight key differences in soil properties between forestland and farmland. Forestland soil is generally healthier than farmland soil, with better pH, magnesium, phosphorus, and Cation Exchange Capacity, which promote fertility and plant growth. However, farmland soil shows higher nitrogen, potassium, and sodium levels, beneficial for short-term crop productivity.