Investigations into the nature and distribution of the sandveldt soils of the central province of Zambia with observations on their land use potential

Abstract

This thesis describes the nature and distribution of the sandveldt soils of the Central Province of Zambia. It is based on the results of detailed, semi-detailed and reconnaissance soil surveys carried out in the Province between 1972 and 1974. Sandveldt soils are light textured, developed over felsic and intermediate rocks and support Brachystegia-Julbernardia-Isoberlinia (Miombo) woodland. They are characteristically yellowish brown where well drained, structure less, and have low C.E.C. Base saturation is very variable and soil reaction is in the range strong to slightly acid. Regoliths are deeply weathered and relatively few weather- able minerals remain in most profiles. Sandveldt soils are Weathered Ferrallitic Soils of generally low agricultural potential. They are estimated to cover 505,000 ha, 41% of Central Province. The thesis is divided into five parts :- Part One explains the background leading to the requirement for soil survey work, describes the survey programme under-taken and methods employed, and reviews the previous work done in the area. Part Two describes in detail the climate, geology, geomorphology and vegetation of the area and explains their pedological significance. Part Three gives an account of the general features of sandveldt soils and their pattern of distribution. Six soil series comprised in a widespread catena are described in detail. A number of associated soils and landtypes are also described. The modal characteristics, genesis and classification of the various soils are discussed. The results of infiltration studies and physical investigations are described. Part Four is an agricultural evaluation of sandveldt soils and includes assessments of land use capability, management and productively, and crop suitability. Part Five comprises conclusions and summary recommendations.