Teff (Eragrostis tef) production constraints on Vertisols in Ethiopia: farmers' perceptions and evaluation of low soil zinc as yield-limiting factor

Abstract

Teff (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter) is a major food crop in Ethiopia and Eritrea. It is well adapted to Vertisols. Yields are low (around 1000 kg ha À1) despite fertilization with urea and diammonium phosphate. The objectives of this study were to understand farmers' perception on teff production constraints and to evaluate on-farm yield response of teff to zinc (Zn) fertilization. We conducted a farm survey and a participatory fertilization experiment in three teff-based sites (peasant associations) on Vertisols in the mid highland and lowland agroecological zones in Ethiopia. Per site 10 farmers participated in the survey and on-farm experiment. Poor soil fertility in the mid highland and moisture deficit in the lowland agroecological zones were mentioned by farmers as major teff production constraints, respectively. On-farm application of Zn fertilizer at a rate of 8 kg Zn ha À1 increased teff grain and straw yields by 14% and 15% on average, respectively, which could be economically profitable. Not all plots showed a positive response, however, indicating the necessity for enhanced insight in indicators for soil Zn bioavailability as a yield-limiting factor. Our study indicates the importance of Zn in teff production on Vertisols. We propose further research on management options to prepare for effective interventions based on the farm survey and on-farm experiment.

Application of secondary nutrients and micronutrients increases crop yields in sub-Saharan Africa

“…Based on improved agronomic efficiency of fertilizer macronutrients as a result of micronutrient application in deficient soils, Vanlauwe et al (2015) conclude on blending micronutrients with fertilizers as a cost-effective way to overcome micronutrient deficiency. Since micronutrients are often viewed for their role in human health, and not for their contribution in enhancing crop yields, there are opinions that overcoming soil micronutrients deficiency is a main path to overcoming deficient of those nutrients in human health 0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 Kayode and Agboola 1985Haileselassie et al 2011AfSIS Oseni 2009Nziguheba et al 2009Afolabi et al 2014Kone et al 2014Adesoji et al 2009Kurwakumire et al 2015Nesgea et al 2012Florent et al 2014Yerokun and Chirwa 2014Admas et al 2015Chaguala et al 2011Nyalemegbe et al 2012Kone et al 2011Osiname et al 1973 Chiezy 2014 Olivier et al 2014Desta et al2015Chude et al 1991Gungula and Garjila 2006Weil and Mughogho 2000Desta, 2015Lisuma et al 2006Habtegebrial et al2013Allan 1971Kang and Osiname 1976Kayode 1984Ojeniyi and Kayode 1993Manzeke et al 2014Habtemichial et al 2007Rechiatu et al 2015Habtegebrial and singh 2009Habtegebrial and singh 2006Abbas et al 2007Chilimba and Chirwa 2011Friesen, 1991Van Asten et al 2004 Abunyewa Forest plot of the variation in effect sizes with study (a) and from country to country (b). Horizontal bars represent 95% conf...…”

Assessing Soil Nutrients Variability and Adequacy for the Cultivation of Maize, Cassava, and Sorghum in Selected Agroecological Zones of Cameroon

“…Feeding the ever-growing population where low soil fertility is a primary constraint to food production is a serious challenge [9,10]. us, to reduce soil fertility-related constraints, there is need for the encouragement of soil fertility management practices which include promotion of organic manure and compost, green manuring, and balanced use of chemical fertilizers [11][12][13].…”

Response of Chickpea (Cicer aritienum L.) to Sulphur and Zinc Nutrients Application and Rhizobium Inoculation in North Western Ethiopia

“…Previous research also indicated that in neutral to alkaline soils where chickpea is usually grown, Zn deficiency can often be encountered (Roy et al, 2006). Other research findings also confirmed deficiency of Zn in Vertisols of Ethiopia (EthioSIS, 2016;Haileselassie et al, 2011;Yifru and Mesfin, 2013).…”