Dielectric properties of fertilized soil in a Catena: A case of Mwanza, Tanzania

Abstract

This work reports the investigation results on how dielectric properties of soil change with fertilizer concentration for catena in Mwanza of Tanzania at 945 MHz frequency band using reflection measurement. Composite soil samples were collected from three catenas: upper, middle, and lower catena sites in Misungwi district located in Mwanza, Tanzania. Two chemical fertilizers UREA and CAN were used since they are widely used in these areas. With the low-cost equipment, reliable results are obtained that show relationship of soil fertility and dielectric properties. The results provide essential information for preparing on-farm measurement to get soil fertility contour that supports land management.