| Autor: |
Bationo, Andre, Waswa, Boaz, Kihara, Job, Kimetu, Joseph, Nekesa, A.O., Okalebo, J.R., Kimetto, J.R. |
| Zdroj: |
Advances in Integrated Soil Fertility Management in sub-Saharan Africa: Challenges & Opportunities; 2007, p955-960, 6p |
| Abstrakt: |
Trans Nzoia district in Western Region-Kenya is characterized by highly weathered acidic and infertile soils. This is as a result of continuous cropping of the soil with limited or no replenishment of soil nutrients. In this region, high input and transport costs for agrochemicals make the use of inorganic fertilizers on staple foods uneconomical for most farmers, hence each year's production is less and poorer compared to the previous. Small-scale farmers have used several methods in trying to curb the problem of soil infertility and the high cost of inorganic fertilizers. These include fallowing, use of fertilizers, use of organic manures (Farmyard manure, compost) use of leguminous trees and even systems that incorporate all the above mentioned inputs. This paper focuses on the success stories of farmers who have used organic manures (FYM and compost) and leguminous trees as alternatives to improving soil fertility and have achieved amazing results. It targets the importance of these sources of nutrients and especially the aspect of affordability to the poor small-scale farmers. The survey on soil fertility issues was conducted in Kaplamai division of Transnzoia district, using a semi structured questionnaire and direct observations. Farmers were selected using a cluster-sampling scheme. A sample of 20 contact farmers was randomly selected. Two neighbours of each contact farmer were further selected, one adjoining the contact farmer and another at a minimum distance of a kilometre. Results showed that the farmers using FYM and compost together with leguminous trees reported better yields with improved soil structure. Those who incorporated all these systems reported less input of fertilizer yearly with high output. Inorganic fertilizers alone caused soil acidity and this input had to be increased each year [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
| Databáze: |
Supplemental Index |
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