<![CDATA[Background: Diverse land uses influence soil physical and chemical properties, which subsequently affects agricultural productivity. This study aimed to analyze the effect of different land uses on soil characteristics and determine the land use with the best soil quality in Labang Village, Labang District, Bangkalan Regency. Methodology: A survey method with purposive sampling was applied to three land-use types: paddy fields, dry land, and mixed gardens. Soil samples were collected at two depths (0–20 cm and 20–40 cm) from four sampling points in each land-use type, resulting in 24 samples. Parameters analyzed included soil texture, water content, bulk density, specific gravity, pH, organic carbon, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and total nitrogen. Data were analyzed using ANOVA in a Randomized Block Design followed by Duncan's test. Findings: The results showed that land use significantly affected pH, total nitrogen, clay, silt, and organic carbon, but had no significant effect on bulk density and sand content. Mixed garden land exhibited the best soil quality, characterized by higher organic carbon, nitrogen, and CEC, as well as lower bulk density and better water retention. These conditions are attributed to diverse vegetation that contributes greater organic matter through litter input. Therefore, mixed gardens are considered more effective in maintaining soil quality and supporting plant growth than other land-use types. Contribution: This study provides baseline information for sustainable land management in the Entisol–Inceptisol areas of Labang Village]]>
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