Abstract

In the field experiment conducted since 1972, crops numbering to 66 have been grown in a fingermillet maize cowpea (fodder) cropping sequence, it was observed that there was a build up in the organic carbon content of the soil. The build up was maximum for the combined application of farmyard manure and optimum NPK (100%). Maximum sustained yield was obtained for the application of 100% NPK + FYM at 10 t ha-1. A combined application of inorganic fertiliser and organic manures therefore is suggested as a means of sustaining the productivity of crops. Regarding the fertility of the soil, the available N status has maintained, P status has been enhanced and there is a marked depletion in K status.

Keywords: Inorganic, Organic, Fertilizers, Manures, Soil fertility