Detailed Soil Survey of Mwea Irrigation Agricultural Development Project (MIAD), 1992

Abstract

This survey was conducted in September 1991. The farm measures approximately 46ha. The main objective of the survey was to investigate the chemical and physical aspects of the soils for future references while siting experimental plots. The farm which was originally virgin land was opened up a few weeks before the soil survey started. Ploughing, hallowing, including making of paddocks and irrigation system installations had been finalized. Initial trials were being done in a few plots. It was noted that rice in the nurseries was yellowing and not doing very well. A total of 100 augers and 5 profile pits were made and described. The soils are classified as Eutric and Dystric Vertisols with sodic phases and have very high levels of calcium and magnesium in the exchange complex which causes nutritional imbalances thus inhibiting uptake of other nutrients.