Influence of Selected Soil Properties on Early Growth of Tectona Grandis Seedlings in Benue State, Nigeria

DOI: 10.22161/ijeab.113.4

Abstract:
This study evaluated the effects of soil properties from five locations in Benue State, Nigeria, on the early growth of Tectona grandis (teak) seedlings. Bulk composite soil samples (0–30 cm depth) were collected 500 m from teak plantations in Amilogodo (Oju), Aghan (Makurdi), Mbagba (Ushongo), Ihugh (Vandekiya), and Ijami (Ohimini). Soils were analyzed for physico-chemical properties, and treated seeds were germinated then transplanted into polypots for six months. Growth parameters included seedling height (cm), leaf number, leaf area index (LAI; cm²), and dry biomass (g). Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and LSD tests (p< 0.05). Soil E (Ohimini; pH 6.10, CEC 7.52 cmol kg−1, organic C 2.28%, total N 0.09%, available P 6.75 mg kg-1) yielded superior performance (height 11.74 cm, LAI 11.30 cm², dry biomass 4.44 g). Well drained loamy soil with high nitrogen content, high CEC, organic matter content and available phosphorus is most suitable for the establishment of Tectona grandis plantation. Therefore, soils with characteristics similar to that of sample E (Ohimini) is recommended for the establishment of Teak (Tectona grandis) plantation Benue State.

Keywords:
Growth performance, Teak, Seedling, Soil samples and Leaf Area Index

Article Info:
Received: 05 Apr 2026; Received in revised form: 02 May 2026; Accepted: 07 May 2026; Available online: 15 May 2026

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