Soil Science Collection

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Factors influencing adoption of soil conservation technologies in Tanzania: A case study in Gairo
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1999) Kalineza, H. M. M.; Mdoe, N. S. Y.; Mlozi, R. S. M.
Factors that influence smallholder farmers’ decision to adopt soil conservation practices were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression model. Data for the study were collected from 114 randomly selected households from four villages in Gairo division. The results of descriptive analysis suggest that farmers who obtained knowledge on soil conservation through extension/training seminars as well as those with secure land ownership are likely to adopt soil conservation technologies. Two broad policy implications emerge from the findings of this study. The first implication is that there is a need to provide extension education that demonstrate relative benefits of various land conservation technologies to stimulate their adoption. The second implication which emerge from the significance of land provides rights of owning land among smallholder farmers. Secure land rights will promote investments on land such as adoption of soil conservation practices.
Preliminary characterization of some streptomyces species from four Tanzanian soils and their antimicrobial potential against selected plant and animal pathogenic bacteria
(World Journal of Microbiology & Biotechnology, 2000-05-02) Ndonde, M. J. M; Semu, E
This study was undertaken to characterize Streptomyces strains occurring in some soils of Tanzania as well as to evaluate their potential to synthesize antimicrobial compounds. Six main classes of isolates were observed according to the colour of aerial mycelium. These were gray, cream, blue, pink, red, and white. The gray colour class dominated. About 65% of the isolates produced soluble pigments of various colours while about 33% of the isolates did not produce any soluble pigments. Brown coloured soluble pigments dominated. About 57% of the isolates had spiral spore chains. Some Streptomyces isolates displayed strong (>30 mm inhibition zone), moderate (20±30 mm), or weak (<20 mm) antibiosis against the plant/animal pathogenic bacteria tested. Other isolates did not show any antibiosis against any of the test pathogens. The plant pathogens CMM IPO 542 (Clavibacter michiganensis ssp. michiganensis) and Xanthomonas vascatoria were inhibited by most of the Streptomyces isolates. Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae and X. campestris were inhibited by the least number of the Streptomyces isolates. Most of the animal pathogens tested seemed to show resistance to the antibiotics produced by some of the Streptomyces isolates which had shown high activity against the plant pathogens.
Land resources inventory and suitability assessment for the major land use types in Morogoro urban district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2001) Msanya, B. M.; Kimaro, D. N.; Kileo, E. P.; Kimbi, G. G.; Mbogoni, Joseph J. D. J.
Land resources inventory and suitability assessment of Morogoro Urban District was carried out to asses the potentials and constraints of the various land units for the production of smallholder low input rainfed maize, rice, sorghum, beans, banana and vegetables. The study covered a total area of approximately 52,125 ha. Morogoro Urban District is situated almost at the heart of Morogoro District, between latitudes 6 o 37 and 6 o 55S and longitudes 37 o 33 and 37 o 51E. The district is bordered by Uluguru Mountains on the south eastern side and Mindu and Nguru ya Ndege hills on the western side. A bigger part of the district comprises plains of various forms and areal extent. Relief and slope aspect have a great influence on the climate of the district. Areas higher in the landscape such as the Morningside are cooler than those lower in the landscape such as Tungi. The trend of rainfall reveals a similar influence of altitude on rainfall. Rainfall is higher at high altitudes and tends to be lower at low altitudes. Areas on the leeward side of the Uluguru Mountains receive relatively lower rainfall than those on the windward side. The onset dates for rainfall are unreliable, although the rainy season continues for 4 to 5 months. During the growing period, rainfall is lowest in the month of May whereas peak rainfall is normally received in April. Climatic data of the district reveal a gradual decrease in rainfall from the east towards the west and northwest. In the Tungi-Mkonowamara areas a rather dry condition prevails. The SUA-Kingolwira areas receive relatively more rainfall than Tungi-Mkonowamara area. This trend can be attributed to the rainshadow effect of the Uluguru Mountains. The geology of Morogoro Urban District comprises four major rock/lithology types. These include hornblende-pyroxene granulites, muscovite-biotite gneiss and migmatites, colluvium and alluvium. The hornblende-pyroxene granulites are the dominant rock types and occupy the major part of the Uluguru Mountains and foothills. The dominant minerals in these rocks are calcium-rich plagioclase, hypersthene ((Mg,Fe)SiO 3 ) and diopside (Ca,MgSi 2 O 6 ). The muscovite-biotite gneisses and migmatites are dominant in the Mindu-Lugala hills and a bigger part of the Tungi-Mkonowamara peneplains. They are of a high metamorphic grade containing equal amounts of potassium-feldspars (microcline) and sodium-rich plagioclase (oligoclase). Quartz is present in fairly high amounts. Colluvial materials of diverse mineralogical composition dominate most of the piedmont slopes and peneplains. Alluvial materials are dominant in the river terraces and flood plains. Climate and its effects on geological processes influence evolution of landforms in the study area. Marked influence on landforms by water erosion as well as colluvio-alluvial processes were observed in the field and through soil profile development. In the current study, six major landform types were identified in the district. The landforms of the Uluguru Mountains display a marked variation in altitude, relief and intensity of dissection. The strongly dissected ridges (1500-2000 m asl) are a manifestation ofMsanya et al. v intense erosion in form of mass movements. The Uluguru mountain foothills (600-900 m asl) are predominantly steep convex slopes. The Mindu-Lugala hills situated at an altitude range of 700-1100 m asl are strongly dissected with hilly topography. The Mzinga-Bigwa piedmonts consist of glacis and alluvial fans. They are gently sloping and are characterised by moderate to severe erosion. Extensive areas of alluvial fans and hill wash sands are found around the strongly dissected Mindu-Lugala hills. Whereas the piedmont slopes associated with the Uluguru Mountains are gently undulating, those of the Mindu-Lugala hills have an undulating topography. Other major important landforms in the district are the peneplains which are situated at an altitude of 300-600 m asl. The peneplains consist of ridge summits and slopes alternating with narrow valley bottoms. The valleys, being flat to almost flat with river terraces and flood plains occurring at an altitudes lower than 400 m asl. Climate, landform patterns and parent materials have had profound influence on types and distribution of soils in the district. Soil profile development reveals marked influence of mass removal of soils by water erosion particularly mass movements in the mountains and colluvio-alluvial processes in the piedmont slopes and peneplains. There is a considerable variation in soil depth, texture, drainage condition and soil chemical properties among the landform units. The mountain ridge slopes have relatively shallow soils and gravely soil textures. This can be attributed to severe erosion caused by mass removal of soil materials mainly by high rainfall. The piedmont slopes and peneplains with colluvial material derived from granulites and mixed gneisses have very deep soils with high amounts of clay content. This is due to constant addition of new soil materials and in situ weathering coupled with low rate of erosion. Landforms associated with migmatites like Mindu-Lugala piedmont slopes and Tungi Mkonowamara peneplains have the highest amount of sand content. This can be explained by the nature of the parent materials which are richer in felsic minerals. Valley soils have medium textures and are stratified as a result of cyclic deposition of materials of diverse origin. The mineralogy of the soils of the Uluguru Mountains, the piedmont slopes and the peneplains are mainly kaolinitic. The soils of the mountain ridges have high content of gibbsite in the clay fraction, which can be attributed to rapid weathering and strong leaching caused by high rainfall and excessive drainage. Soils of the river terraces and flood plains have relatively high contents of smectite and illite in the clay fraction, revealing the relative young age of the soils. Soils of the mountains are slightly acidic to acidic (pH<5.5). Piedmonts have nearly neutral reaction (pH 6.0-7.5) except for the glacis which are strongly acidic (pH<5.5). Most soils of the peneplains are moderately acid except for those associated with migmatites, which are strongly acid (pH<5.5). Valleys have nearly neutral to alkaline soils with ESP ranging between 5 and 37%. Organic carbon and nitrogen levels for all soils are very low with values less than 1.0% and 0.1% respectively. Available P is alsoMsanya et al. vi low (<5 mg/kg). Nutrient retention capacity of soils is low (CEC <12 cmol(+)/kg) except in the valleys where nutrient retention is high (CEC 20-30 cmol(+)/kg ). According to FAO-World Reference Base nine major soil types were identified and classified. The soils of the strongly dissected mountain ridge slopes are Leptosols, Lixisols, Luvisols and Cambisols. Dominant soils on the piedmonts and peneplains are Lixisols and Acrisols while the ridge side slopes on the peneplains have soils classified as Cambisols. The soils of the river terraces and flood plains are Fluvisols, Vertisols and Gleysols while those of the Mindu hills and surrounding areas are classified as Leptosols, Cambisols and Arenosols. Six major land utilisation types namely; smallholder low input rainfed maize, rice, sorghum, beans, bananas and vegetables were identified and evaluated in Morogoro Urban District. Land suitability classification indicates that, none of the land mapping units is highly suitable for all the studied land utilisation types. This is because its natural fertility has been depleted over time through leaching, erosion and nutrient mining through continuous cropping. Among the six LUTs, vegetable production was more suited to the area for it could be grown in about 80% of the area. Beans rank the second followed by maize. Sorghum was found to be the fourth LUT in the area while rice was the least. Moisture supply soil fertility and erosion hazards are among the most limiting factors for production of most crops in the area. Deliberate efforts should be taken to establish critical zones for afforestation, reduce burning through introduction of by laws and appropriate training programmes, use of grass barriers and cultivation of perennial crops. Further research on soil erosion particularly mass movements, gullying and sheet wash is prerequisite in order to come up with acceptable soil conservation packages for the district. It is strongly suggested that emphasis should be put on the use of organic and non acidifying fertilisers and afforestation of hilltops. Use of indigenous fertilisers such as rock phosphate and manures could immensely contribute to the improvement of soil fertility in Morogoro Urban District. Water harvesting techniques, growing of drought tolerant crops and use of organic fertilisers will improve the sustainability of agricultural production in the area. The focus should be on the use of integrated nutrient management techniques. Provision of drainage systems in the poorly drained areas will control and keep the ground water levels low. This will also enhance regular flushing of the soils thus avoiding the building up of harmful levels of salts. Saline soils could also be managed through proper crop selection and planting of saline tolerant crops. Sorghum withstands poor drainage condition and can cope very well with drought and saline conditions.Msanya et al. vii Frequent floods especially by the Ngerengere river could be reduced by flood protection works like construction of ditches and dikes with outlets to the present natural drainage system. Agricultural mechanisation and use of organic fertilisers will in the long run improve soil structure of the lands in the district and ultimately enhance soil workability.
Site evaluation for factory construction in Kingolwira area, Morogoro, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2001) Msanya, B. M.; Kimaro, D. N.
UNNAT is a Company based in Mwanza (P.O. Box 2964). Recently the Company has acquired a piece of land of an area of about 58 acres (23.2 ha) in Morogoro at Kingolwira area where they are intending to construct a fruit-processing factory. The project Coordinator Mr. B.C. Thakore made several contacts with the Sokoine University of Agriculture to seek advice and expertise on the development of the site. Mr. Thakore (hereinafter referred to as “client”) has consulted Prof. B.M. Msanya and Mr. D.N. Kimaro of P.O. Box 3008, SUA, Morogoro (hereinafter referred to as “consultants”) to carry out the study.
Cyanosoils project site and soil characterization
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2002) Msanya, B. M.; Kimaro, D. N.; Maliondo, S. M. S.; Semu, E.; Madoffe, S. S.; Mvena, Z. K. S.
The objective of the study was to select sites for the Cyanosoils project and to characterize the soils on which experiments will be carried out. Through field visits and studies three sites were identified and described in Morogoro Urban and Mvomero Districts. Soil profiles were excavated, described and sampled for laboratory analyses.
Principles of soil classification
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2003) Msanya, B. M.
Pedological characteristics, general fertility and classification of some benchmark soils of Morogoro district, Tanzania
(African Network of Scientific and Technological Institutions, 2003-12) Msanya, B. M.; Kaaya, K. A.; Araki, Shigeru; Otsuka, Hiroo; Nyadzi, Gerson, I
A detailed characterization of soils earmarked as “Benchmark Soils of Morogoro District”, Tanzania, was carried out to provide data required for planning and execution of soil fertility studies and transfer of agro-technology in the area. Benchmark soils are defined as those occurring in extensive areas and whose comprehensive characterization could contribute substantially to transfer of agro-technology from one area to another. Eleven sites were selected as “Benchmark Sites” of the district based on existing soils information coupled with reconnaissance field soil survey. Soil samples representative of the benchmark soil profiles were described and analysed for their chemical, physical and mineralogical characteristics. Based on these data, general fertility is discussed for the various soils pointing out their potentials and constraints. The data also permitted classification of the soils using international soil classification systems i.e. the United States Department of Agriculture Soil Taxonomy and the FAO-UNESCO Soil Classification System. The soils were classified into different categories reflecting their differences in potentials and constraints and hence use and management. The data obtained through this study presents a substantial base for sound land use planning and will facilitate transfer of technology from one area to another with similar ecological conditions.
Characterization of volcanic ash soils in south-western Tanzania: morphology, physicochemical properties, and classification
(African Study Monographs, 2007-03) Msanya, B. M.; Otsuka, Hiroo; Araki, Shigeru; Fujitake, Nobuhide
ABSTRACT This study examined the characteristics of volcanic ash soils in southwestern Tanzania. Twelve pedons of volcanic origin were studied, and 66 soil samples were analyzed. Soil morphology revealed volcanic ash layers of varying thicknesses. Most pedons had a dark thick humus surface and buried A, AB, and BA horizons with melanic indices of 1.7 or less. Except in two pedons, the NaF pH was 9.4 or more, reflecting an exchange complex domi- nated by amorphous materials and/or Al–humus complexes. The phospate-retention capacity ranged from 65 to 100%, except in two pedons, and was positively correlated with NaF pH. Both Tanzanian and Japanese volcanic ash soils showed comparable ranges of base saturation (BS) values, but the distribution patterns of BS basic cations, for example, showed some dif- ferences. Some Tanzanian volcanic ash soils had higher BS values than their Japanese coun- terparts. While the Japanese soils were generally more calcic and magnesic, the Tanzanian soils were more potassic and sodic than their counterparts, most likely reflecting lithologi- cal differences among parent materials in the two study areas. According to the USDA Soil Taxonomy, nine pedons satisfied the requirements for andic properties and were classified as Andisols at the order level, whereas according to FAO World Reference Base (WRB) soil classification, eight pedons were classified as Andosols at the level of reference soil groups.
Report on the feasibility of producing macadamia nuts in Mr. Hussein M. Hussein’s farm, Kibaha district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2007-10) Msanya, B. M.
Evaluation of the impact of alternative wheat residue and water management on soil properties and soybean yield in a wheat-soybean double-crop system, Eastern Arkansas
(University of Arkansas, 2008-12) Amuri, Nyambilila
Long-term agricultural sustainability requires evaluation of agricultural management practices that may improve and sustain soil quality and crop productivity over time. The objective of this study was to determine the 6-yr effects of tillage [conventional (CT) and no-tillage (NT)], wheat residue burning (bum and no bum), residue level (low and high), and 3-yr irrigation (irrigated and dry-land condition), on soybean [Glycine max (L.) Men-.] yield, soil physical and chemical properties in the top 10 cm, and weed population diversity in a wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.)]-soybean double-crop production system. A field experiment was conducted from fall 2001 through fall 2007 in the Mississippi River Delta region of eastern Arkansas on a Calloway silt loam (fine silty, mixed, active, thermic Glossaquic Fraglossudalf). Soil bulk density increased at a greater magnitude under NT (1.22 to 1.35 g cm'3) than CT (1.19 to 1.26 g cm*3) during the first 3 years, but declined at a similar rate in both tillage treatments after the third year. Irrigation increased soil pH (0.2 pH unit yr*1), Mehlich-3 extractable soil Mg (55.1 kg Mg ha*1 yr*1), and total C contents (0.11 kg C m*2 yr*1) compared to dry-land condition which had no pH change, but had less increase of extractable Mg (36.6 kg Mg ha*1 yr*1), and total C content (0.04 kg C m*2 yr*1). Soil organic matter (SOM) increased over time in all treatment combinations. Total C (TC) increased at a greater rate in the no bum (0.077 kg C m*2 yr*1) and high-residue-level (0.073 kg C m*2 yr*1) than in the bum (0.051 kg C m*2 yr*1) and low-residue-level (0.054 kg C m*2 yr*1) treatments. The total weed species density was greater under CT (513 plants m*2) than under NT (340 plants m*2) early in the soybean growing season in 2006, but did not differ between tillage treatments in 2007. Perennial weed density was greaterunder bum (99 plants m"2) than no bum (59 plants m’2) in 2006, and in 2007, was greater under NT than CT but unaffected by bum. Retaining crop residues and herbicide application reduced the density of all weed species, grass, and broadleaf weed species. Tillage, burning, and residue level generally did not affect soil penetration resistance in the top 0.20-m in 2003 and in 2006, but soil cone index (CI) was consistently lower under bum than no bum at all depth below 0.20 m. The CI at the 0.05-m depth increased by 35% after 4 years compared to after 1 year of NT soybean. Soybean yield differed over years of the trials. Soybean yield declined during the first 3 years, but increased over the subsequent 3 years in all treatment combinations. Economic analysis showed that management practices with NT will likely be more profitable than the traditional CT practice even when the fertilizer and diesel costs continue to increase. Therefore, NT and non-burning with any residue level have great potential to improve soil quality, reduce weed pressure in the soybean growing season, and maintain profitability in the wheat soybean double-crop production system.
Report on the potential of the soils of Kalaita company’s farm, Mvomero district, Morogoro, Tanzania, for various agricultural land uses – a rapid assessment
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2010) Msanya, B. M.
Livestock resources inventory and mapping in agro-pastoral area of Senani, Maswa District, Shinyanga, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Boniface, H.; Massawe, J.; Meliyo, J. L.; Mwilawa, A.; Mashalla, B.
The agro-pastoralist economy is based on livestock and crop production. The societies practicing agro-pastoralism are equally highly dependent on livestock for their basic food, income and social needs as it is for crop production. The Agro-pastoral production system has developed in semi arid lands and is arguably the best form of land use for these areas. In Senani area where agro-pastoralism is practiced, the agro-pastoralists tend to leave some portions of their land as grazing reserves. The herds of cattle, sheep and goats utilize the forage and water in these grazing reserves only during dry season. This system allows the set aside land to be left free from human activities and livestock grazing during rainy season, which allows natural re-establishment of pasture for re-use in the next dry season. The sizes of the herds in Senani are relatively large such that the grazing reserves with their associated water points are by far less sufficient. This necessitates seasonal migration of some of the animals to the wider grazing lands and permanent water sources in nearby and distant areas. The movements of the agro-pastoralists are therefore very much influenced by the size of their herds in comparison to the size of the grazing reserves under their access and the availability of drinking water. They are also influenced by the factors which affect the abundance and performance of the pasture in their grazing reserves such as favourable amount and distribution of precipitation. The movements in search for pasture and water raise a lot of conflicts with other land users especially the crop growers and conservationists. Information on the available livestock resources is very important for development players who would wish to intervene in improving livestock production. It is on that basis that the project on “Contingency Plans for coping with Crisis Situations in Pastoral Areas of Eastern and Central Africa” wanted to get the livestock resource information of Senani area so that it can use it for appropriate planning and implementation of sustainable livestock production and development of general management plans. The information sought by the project included the livestock migration routes, water sources, grazing reserves, livestock market centres and livestock health services. This information could be acquired, processed and presented using GIS operations. To accomplish that goal, the Project Coordinator requested Mr. Boniface H. J. Massawe of Department of Soil Science, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania to make an inventory and map the aforesaid livestock resources in the agro-pastoral community of Senani in Maswa district, Shinyanga region, Tanzania by using GIS technologies. The field work was carried out between 15 th and 21 st May, 2011.
Report on agronomic practices and soil fertility analysis for improved maize production in Kiteto and Kongwa Districts in Tanzania
(USAID & Feed the Future, 2012-11-13) Massawe, B. H. J.
As the pillar of both the domestic and the export economy, the agricultural sector in Tanzania engages about 80 percent of the labor force. The Tanzania’s agriculture economy is dominated by food production which accounts for about 85 percent of over 5 million hectares cultivated per year. Maize is the most important staple food in Tanzania and in the East Africa region in general. In Tanzania, it accounts for 31 per cent of the total food production and constitutes more than 75 per cent of the cereal consumption in the country. The crop is cultivated on an average of two million hectares, which is about 45% of the cultivated area in Tanzania (Katinila et al., 1998). Maize represents about 30 per cent of the value of crop production in the country and 10 per cent of total value added in agricultural sector respectively (Sassi, 2004). The crop provides 60% of dietary calories and more than 50% of utilizable protein to the Tanzanian population. Maize is not only a staple crop in surplus regions but a cash crop as well. About 85% of the maize produced in Tanzania is grown by peasants whose farms are less than 10 ha. Smallholder productivity is very low and highly variable, ranging from 0.01t/ha to 6.77t/ha, averaging 1.19t/ha. This low level of productivity is said to be due to low levels of education, lack of extension services, limited capital, land fragmentation, and unavailability and high input prices (Msuya et al, 2008) Studies carried out by Isinika et al (2003) and MAFC (2006) show that smallholder maize productivity in the country is suffering due to the fact that, most smallholders do not practice high-yield farming methods, and produce mainly for subsistence. The Poverty and Human Development Report of 2007 (R&AWG, 2007) showed that 87 percent of Tanzanian farmers interviewed by the research and analysis group under Tanzania's NSGRP said that they were not using chemical fertilizers; 77 percent said that they were not using improved seeds; 72 percent said that they were not using pesticides, herbicides or insecticides (agrochemicals), due to the high costs of agricultural inputs and services. Kongwa and Kiteto maize farmers are not exceptional. To increase maize productivity under small scale farming, identification of gaps between what is recommended to exploit the production potential and what is practiced by small scale farmers is required. This report covers a work done in maize producing areas of Kongwa district in Dodoma region and Kiteto district in Manyara region of Tanzania. The two districts share a common border. The report is a prelude to a soil test exercise which intends to assist in providing site specific soil fertility status and recommendations for soil and fertilizers management in the identified maize producing areas of Kongwa and Kiteto districts. Specifically, the report covers: a) a review of current fertilizer and soil management recommendations for maize in the study area; b) a review of current maize farming practices and their effect on soil fertility depletion in the study area; c) an analysis of soil variability within the study area in order to establish different sampling units (sites); and d) site specific fertility status and management recommendations for improved maize production based on soil test results.
Report on agronomic practices and soil fertility analysis for improved rice production in the Kilombero and Wami Valley Area in Tanzania
(USAID & Feed the Future, 2012-11-13) Massawe, B. H. J.
Tanzanian economy is dominated by smallholder agriculture accounting for more than 90% of rural employment with food crop production dominating the agriculture economy. Rice is the second most important cereal crop in Tanzania after maize and the majority of rice farmers depend on it both for food and cash (Bucheyeki et al., 2011; RLDC, 2011). Tanzania rank second as a largest producer of rice in Southern Africa after Madagascar with production level of 818,000 tons produced from 681,000 ha (USDA world rice statistics, 2007). Like in other food crop production, most of the rice production in Tanzania is undertaken by small scale farming. Small scale rice farming is characterized by many small holder farmers, cultivating small farms (0.5 to 10 acres), whereby rain fed accounts for 71% and traditional irrigation accounts for 29% of rice grown in Tanzania (RLDC, 2011). These small scale farmers use no or low inputs. The major constraints facing the rice production sector includes erratic weather condition and declining land productivity due to application of poor technology, inaccessibility of improved seeds, inherent low soil fertility and poor soil fertility management practices. As a result of these factors the average rice yield per unit area under small scale farms is 1.0 to 1.5 t ha-1. These yields are lower than yield in the developed countries which hikes to over 10 t ha-1 in some seasons (Bucheyeki et al., 2011). To increase rice productivity under small scale farming, identification of gaps between what is recommended for adequate rice production and what is practiced by small scale farmers is required. Most of the current recommendations in soil fertility management in rice fields are blanket. This is not helpful in extension services because as matter of fact, soils are variable and need different packages for their improvements in order to intensify rice production. Therefore, a survey at a somehow detailed scale is important to have area specific recommendations. This report therefore presents: a) Review of current fertilizer and soil management recommendations for rice in the study area; b) Current rice farming practices and their effect on soil fertility depletion in the study area; and c) Site specific soil fertility status and recommendation of measures to be taken in order to improve rice productivity.
Assessment of nutrient and biomass yield of medium and long duration pigeon pea in a pigeon pea-groundnut intercropping system in Malawi
(Journal of Sustainable Society, 2013) Phiri, Austin Tenthani; Msaky, John J.; Mrema, Jerome; Kanyama-Phiri, George Yobe; Harawa, Rebbie
Preliminary assessment of the performance of the medium and long duration pigeon pea in a pigeon pea- groundnut intercropping system was conducted at Chitedze Agricultural Research Station (S 13 0 59’ 23.2”, E033 0 38’ 36.8”) in the 2011/2012 cropping season. An experiment involving eight treatments replicated three times in a randomized complete block design was established. Two pigeon pea varieties, long (ICEAP 04000) and medium duration (ICEAP 00557) and groundnut (CG 7) were grown as monocultures and intercrops. The intercrops involved planting either of the pigeon pea varieties with groundnut. Baseline soil data indicate that the soil pH was acid to moderately acid both in the top (mean=5.4-5.7) and the sub soil (mean=5.4-5.6) in all the treatment plots, with mostly low to marginally adequate total nitrogen content both in the top (mean=0.08- 0.14%) and the sub soil (mean=0.09-0.13%). The soil organic carbon content was medium in the top soil (mean=0.9-1.6%) as well as sub soil (mean=1.1-1.6%) across the treatment plots. At the same time soil phosphorus was low to marginally adequate in the top soil (mean=16.8-27.6 mg kg -1 ) and marginally adequate in the sub soil (mean=20.8-25.6 mg kg -1 ), suggesting low soil fertility. The assessment of the above ground groundnut biomass indicate a mean yield range of 479-656 kg ha -1 . While the assessment of the total biomass yield of the pigeon pea varieties indicate a mean yield range of 2,034-2,593 kg ha -1 . In terms of estimated nitrogen yields returned to the soil, the medium duration pigeon pea-groundnut intercrop (mean=50.6 kg N ha -1 ) and the long duration pigeon pea-groundnut intercrop (mean=49.6 kg N ha -1 ) gave significantly (p<0.05) higher yields than by the monocultures of long duration pigeon pea (mean=41.1 kg N ha -1 ) and medium duration pigeon pea (mean=41.0 kg N ha -1 ). Statistically (p<0.05), the lowest amount of estimated nitrogen yield was generated by the groundnut sole crop (mean=12.8 kg N ha -1 ). Overall, the intercrops showed yield advantage (total LER >1.0) compared with the monoculture on equal land area. For the Malawian smallholder farmers, this suggests that mineral N supplementation in a legume-cereal rotation system for enhanced crop productivity might be less in the double legume-cereal rotation mode than in a legume monoculture-cereal rotation system.
Farmers’ perception of soil fertility problems and their attitudes towards integrated soil fertility management for coffee in Northern Tanzania
(Journal of Soil Science and Environmental Management, 2013-09) Maro, Godsteven P.; Mrema, J. P.; Msanya, B. M.; Teri, James M.
A study was conducted in Hai and Lushoto districts, Northern Tanzania to establish the farmers’ perception of soil fertility problems and their attitudes towards integrated soil fertility management (ISFM) for coffee, thereby identifying the appropriate intervention strategies. The study was based on a structured questionnaire involving 126 respondents. Both farmers’ awareness of the problem and their attitudes were highly significant (at p<0.01). Age, household size, and adoption of improved coffee varieties, affected farmers’ awareness significantly (p<0.05). As for farmers’ attitudes, six of the eight predictors were significant (p<0.05). Age, household size, adoption of new varieties and total farm income were highly significant (p<0.01). Age, total land under coffee and total off-farm income negatively affected farmers’ attitudes. As farmers get older, they tend to refrain from innovation. Larger farms are likely to exert more pressure on the available organic resources. With multiple farms, distant farms are likely to receive less attention. When off-farm income was considered, multiple ventures compete for the farmers’ time, resources and attention. For the two districts, ISFM interventions will make a better impact to younger and more energetic farmers with sufficient lands for commercial coffee production and to farmers who depend largely on this resource for their livelihood.
Developing a coffee yield prediction and integrated soil fertility management recommendation model for Northern Tanzania
(International Journal of Plant & Soil Science, 2014-02-14) Maro, Godsteven, P.; Mrema, J. P.; Msanya, B. M.; Janssen, Bert, H.; Teri, James, M.
The aim of this study was to develop a simple and quantitative system for coffee yield estimation and nutrient input advice, so as to address the problem of declining annual coffee production in Tanzania (particularly in its Northern coffee zone), which is related to declining soil fertility. The study was conducted between 2010 and 2013 at TaCRI Lyamungu, with source data taken from Hai and Lushoto districts, Northern Tanzania. An earlier model QUEFTS, developed for maize but under similar conditions as those of Arabica coffee (Coffea arabica) in the study areas was used as a benchmark. Secondary fertilizer trial data were used in model calibration for coffee, while adding two more steps related to balanced nutrition and the economics of integrated soil fertility management (ISFM). Primary soil analytical data and calculated yields on basis of tree number were used for model testing. The result was a new model which we hereby call SAFERNAC (Soil Analysis for Fertility Evaluation and Recommendation on Nutrient Application to Coffee). The model consists of three modules: SOIL (the soil properties of interest), PLANT (all the crop and crop management parameters such as physiological nutrient use efficiency, plant density, maximum yields per tree) and INPUT (nutrient inputs – organic and inorganic). It consists of two subsequent parts – a baseline approach (no input) for coffee land evaluation; and an integrated soil fertility management (ISFM) approach that involves application of nutrient inputs, for ISFM planning and design of fertilizer experiments. The model was checked for accuracy of the adjusted equations, and found to be capable of reproducing the actual yields by 80-100%. The new model is a useful tool for use in coffee farms.
Exploring the nutrient release potential of organic materials as integrated soil fertility management components using SAFERNAC
(International Journal of Plant & Soil Science, 2014-02-18) Maro, Godsteven, P.; Mrema, J. P.; Msanya, B. M.; Janssen, Bert, H.; Teri, James, M.
The aim of this study was to establish the nutrient release potential of different organic materials and assess their role in integrated soil fertility management for coffee using the new coffee yield model SAFERNAC. It involved an incubation experiment conducted at TaCRI Lyamungu Screenhouse for 180 days between April and September 2011. Cattle manure, coffee leaves, pulp and husks, Albizzia leaves and four green manure plants – Mucuna pruriens, Lupinus albus, Canavalia ensiformis and Crotalaria ochroleuca were mixed with two soil types – Eutric Nitisols from Lyamungu, Hai district and Humi-Umbric Acrisols from Yoghoi, Lushoto district. The mixing ratio was 5% organic to soil, the mixture was moistened to FC and incubated in 10 litre plastic containers arranged in RCBD (10 treatments and 3 replications) at room temperature. Duplicate soil samples + were taken at day 0, 3, 8, 15, 26, 45, 74, 112 and 180 and analyzed for NH 4 -N, NO 3 -N, available P and exchangeable K. The cumulative N min , P and K values resulting from the treatments were used to estimate their relative contribution to the soil nutrient pool and later exposed to the new model SAFERNAC for yield estimation under different nutrient management options (1 to 10 tons organics per ha alone on one hand and supplemented with 160 kg N, 60 kg P and 160 kg K). The tested organics differed significantly (P<0.001) in their N min, P and K release in the two soil types. They also differed in their substitution values and therefore the amounts of nutrients each one can contribute to the soil nutrient pools. Green manures showed about ten times higher potential as compared to cattle manure. Four of them (Crotalaria, Mucuna, Canavalia and Lupine) were picked as best bets for inclusion in the coffee ISFM programme. SAFERNAC recommended a number of nutrient management options involving the test organics and the two soil types under organic and conventional coffee farming.
Soil organic carbon stocks in the dominant soils of the Miombo woodland ecosystem of Kitonga Forest Reserve, Iringa, Tanzania
(International Journal of Agricultural Policy and Research, 2014-03-06) Shelukindo, Hassan Bashiru; Semu, Ernest; Msanya, B. M.; Singh, Bal Ram; Munishi, Pantaleo K.T
Few studies have determined the soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks in the Miombo woodlands ecosystem in Tanzania. Standard field and laboratory procedures were used to evaluate SOC storage in the Miombo woodlands ecosystem of Kitonga Forest Reserve Iringa, Tanzania. A study area of 52 km 2 was selected and ten soil profiles were studied. Representative sampling points were geo-referenced and soil samples collected from natural horizons to the depth of 60 cm. Results show that the total soil organic carbon stocks in soil profiles varied from 19.4 to 28.9 Mg C ha -1 in leptosols; from 45.6 to 80.1 Mg C ha -1 in fluvisols; and from 33.9 to 134.6 Mg C ha -1 in cambisols. The SOC increased significantly (p< 0.05) with increasing elevation, horizon thickness and % clay, but it decreased significantly (p< 0.05) with increasing slope gradient and increasing % sand. The areal distribution of the soil types was 61%, for cambisols, 19% for leptosols, 11% for fluvisols and 9% for natural forest which was not surveyed because of inaccessibility. Proper management of Miombo woodlands would increase the SOC storage and contribute to climate change regulation.
Characterization of some typical soils of the miombo woodland ecosystem of Kitonga Forest Reserve, Iringa, Tanzania: physico-chemical properties and classification
(Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology, 2014-03-20) Shelukindo, Hassan Bashiru; Msanya, B. M.; Semu, Ernest; Mwango, Sibaway Bakari; Singh, Bal Ram; Munishi, Pantaleo
Despite the fact that miombo woodland soils have significant implications in global climate change processes, few studies have been done to characterize and classify the soils of the miombo woodland ecosystem of Tanzania. The current study was carried out to map and classify soils of Kitonga Forest Reserve, which is a typical miombo woodland ecosystem, in order to generate relevant information for their use and management. A representative study area of 52 km 2 was selected and mapped at a scale of 1:50,000 on the basis of relief. Ten representative soil profiles were excavated and described using standard methods. Soil samples were taken from genetic soil horizons and analyzed in the laboratory for physico-chemical characteristics using standard methods. Using field and laboratory analytical data, the soils were classified according to the FAO-World Reference Base (FAO-WRB) for Soil Resources system as Cambisols, Leptosols and Fluvisols. In the USDA-NRCS Soil Taxonomy system the soils were classified as Inceptisols and Entisols. Topographical features played an important role in soil formation. The different soil types differed in physico-chemical properties, hence exhibit differences in their potentials, constraints and need specific management strategies. Texture varied from sandy to different loams; pH from 5.1 to 5.9; organic carbon from 0.9 g/kg to 20 g/kg; and CEC from 3 cmol/(+)kg to 24 cmol/(+)kg. Sustainable management of miombo woodlands ecosystem soils requires reduced deforestation and reduced land degradation.

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