Suitability Assessment of Bantog Soil Series
for Potential Enhancement of Rice-Based
Cropping Systems
Sandro D. Cañete1*, Wilfredo B. Collado1, Rodrigo B. Badayos2,
Pearl B. Sanchez2, and Pompe C. Sta. Cruz3
1Agronomy, Soils and Plant Physiology Division,
Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, 3119, Philippines
2Soils and Agro-Ecosystem Division, Agricultural Systems Cluster
College of Agriculture, University of the Philippines, Los Baños, Laguna, 4031, Philippines
3Crop Science Cluster, College of Agriculture,
University of the Philippines, Los Baños, Laguna, 4031, Philippines
*Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
ABSTRACT
Land evaluation was carried out on both irrigated and irrigation-supplemented rainfed lowlands of Bantog soil series using the Food and Agriculture (FAO) land suitability framework. This system was able to describe the land qualities of the land units, define important production constraints relative to its characteristics or properties, and suggest corresponding interventions for optimum and sustainable crop production. Suitability analysis disclosed that Bantog series is highly suitable to rice production. Relatively, both land units were limited by low to moderate level of organic carbon, low nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium except for the high phosphorus level in the irrigation-supplemented rainfed lowland. Such constraints on soil nutrient status can be addressed using the QUEFTS model for irrigated rice. Other crops showed moderate to high suitability on both land units. Alternative farming options such as crop rotation, relay cropping, and multiple cropping while infusing interventions associated with moderate drainage, low organic carbon, soil cracking, and marginal to moderate texture are recommended as it translate into a more profitable and sustainable farming. Moreover, information on crops’ fitness in Bantog series has of practical importance in selecting the type of crops to grow as well as in the planning of cropping system suited for the properties of the land unit. Besides, agro-technology transfer can be smoothly implemented since soils of the same series most likely assume similar limitations and management interventions.
INTRODUCTION
Land-use optimization on both irrigated and irrigation-supplemented agricultural lands are imperative relative to the government’s drive of attaining food self-sufficiency. Such attempt would increase farm productivity and profitability. However, the capacity of the land unit to provide sustained production over the years should be ascertained.
New plant types are likely to provide a quantum leap toward increased yield. However, its sustainability in terms of production as well as changes in soil and crop management to sustain its yield should be explored (Dobermann & White, 1999). . . . . read more
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