Soil morphological and chemical characteristics of key research and demonstration sites of the Central Province, Papua New Guinea

Knowledge of soil morphology and chemical fertility at key agricultural research and demonstrations sites is fundamental to the development and extension of agricultural production systems. Developing countries are often challenged by incomplete and/or sparse spatial data that does not capture the variability in soil type, fertility and other key limitations to productive and sustainable use. While it is not possible to overcome all land use limitations in a short term project, a strategic approach that targets areas that have potential for intensive agricultural development can be used to best focus limited resources. This approach has been used in Central Province of Papua New Guinea. This province consists of lowland and elevated areas with vastly differing soil types and land use limitations. Here we report on profile characteristics and soil fertility of potentially productive soil and site combinations identified at research stations and from organised farming cooperatives in the district. The data show some of the wide diversity in soil physical and chemical characteristics in the province. The implications of these soil data for agricultural development and productivity are discussed.