A study was conducted in 2000-01 in the semi-arid Zimuto Communal Area in Zimbabwe to compare mineral fertilizer application methods with farmers. Three fertilizer application methods, the flexible Fertilizer Management Package (FMP). the AGRITEX extension method and the FARMER method were compared in 10 farmers' fields. The FMP is a flexible package where N is applied in relation to rainfall and crop growth. Compound D (8:14:7 NPK) was broadcast when the maize was planted. Ammonium Nitrate (AN) was applied at 10 days after crop emergence. and at 30 days and 60 days in relation to rainfall and crop growth. The AGRITEX package provided Compound D at planting and AN was applied once when the crop reached knee high. In the FARMER practice, fertilizer management was done following the farmers' planned concepts or fertilizer management. and this generally involved little fertilizer and combination with cattle manure. Farmers managed the fields. Results showed high observed Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) values of 80 kg grain per kg N applied at rates below 20 kg N/ha but very low NUEs (- 5 kg of grain per kg of N) with fertilizer rates above 90 kg. The NUEs declined as more N was applied. The FARMER practice was lowest and the FMP being highest. The homestead fields gave highest maize yields. There were no differences between the FMP and Agritex packages on maize yields. Farmer management or the fertilizer packages revealed that extension information on fertilizer management was limited. Farmers tenden to modify the packages forwards their fertilizer management concepts. Feedback from farmers suggested that the farmers best liked the FMP package. but suggested they will need support to access the N fertilizer it needs. Farmers suggested promoting a simplified FMP package with a maximum or two timings/doses or topdress N fertilizer.

English

0409|AGRIS 0401|AL-Maize Program

Juan Carlos Mendieta

CIMMYT Staff Publications Collection