Assessment and Evaluation of Bris Soil and its Implication on Maize Crop in Merang- Terengganu Region of Malaysia

Abstract

The research objectives focus on the evaluation of the physical properties of BRIS soil; to investigate the limiting factors for maize crop; also to create the awareness of the farmers as to the fertility and soil characteristics for better maize production and the effort to increase maize crop production.        Soil fertility status of soil series are classified as very low to low, except Base Saturation because the soils are strongly influenced by sea movement. The soil suitability was S3-twrne for Baging and Rhu Tapai, S3-twrnx for Rudua, and S3-twrn for Jambu with the soil productivity of around < 1, 1-2 and 2-3 tons dried maize per ha per year respectively. The needed efforts to improve soil capability from actual to potential soil suitability for maize cultivation are i.e. cover the soils with mulch, make sprinkle irrigation, make dam for water holding and retention, give and maintain organic matters in the soils and do not burn biomass, fertilize soils with NPK and organic fertilizers, do wash elements of Na and H and break down shallow spodic horizons, make terraces and mix mineral subsoils to BRIS soil to improve CEC.

Keywords: Assessment, Evaluation, Bris Soil Series, Physiography, Maize, Terengganu,