Vol. 2009 No. 1 (2009)

View Issue TOC

Precision Fertilizer Application Enhances Maize Yield in Northern Zambia: An Intervention Study

Shikongo Chilufya, Copperbelt University, Kitwe Kabuke Banda, Department of Advanced Studies, Zambia Agricultural Research Institute (ZARI) Mwenda Chiyawa, Department of Interdisciplinary Studies, Zambia Agricultural Research Institute (ZARI) Chishimba Mulenga, Zambia Agricultural Research Institute (ZARI)
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18888096
Published: September 10, 2009

Abstract

Maize is a crucial staple crop in Northern Zambia, where nutrient deficiencies can significantly impact yields. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with two groups: control (no additional fertilizers) and intervention (precision-fertilized plots). Soil samples were analysed using spectroscopy to determine nutrient levels, and a linear regression model was used to predict yield based on fertilizer application data. Precision applications of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium increased maize yields by an average of 20% with minimal soil nutrient imbalances (mean ± SD: N=15.2±3.8 kg/ha, P=16.4±2.9 kg/ha, K=17.3±3.5 kg/ha). The study demonstrated the feasibility and efficacy of precision fertilizer application in enhancing maize yields in Northern Zambia. Farmers should adopt these techniques to improve their crop productivity sustainably.

Full Text:

Read the Full Article

The HTML galley is loaded below for inline reading and better discovery.

How to Cite

Shikongo Chilufya, Kabuke Banda, Mwenda Chiyawa, Chishimba Mulenga (2009). Precision Fertilizer Application Enhances Maize Yield in Northern Zambia: An Intervention Study. African Ocean Chemistry (Earth Science), Vol. 2009 No. 1 (2009). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18888096

Keywords

African AgricultureNutrient ManagementPrecision AgricultureCrop Yield AnalysisSoil FertilityExperimental DesignField Trials

Research Snapshot

Desktop reading view
Language
EN
Formats
HTML + PDF
Publication Track
Vol. 2009 No. 1 (2009)
Current Journal
African Ocean Chemistry (Earth Science)

References