Comparison of effects of phosphorus sources on soil acidity, available phosphorus and maize yields at two sites in western Kenya

Abstract

The effects of farmyard manure (FYM), Tithonia diversifolia (tithonia) and urea when applied alone or in combination with Minjingu phosphate rock (MPR), Busumbu phosphate rock (BPR) or triple superphosphate (TSP) on soil acidity, P availability, maize yields and financial benefits were evaluated at Bukura and Kakamega in western Kenya. A reduction in exchangeable acidity and Al was observed in most tithonia- and FYM-treated soils, but not with inorganic P sources when applied in combination with urea. The effectiveness in increasing available soil P followed the order; TSP > MPR > BPR among inorganic P sources, and FYM > tithonia among organic materials at both sites. At Bukura, a site higher in both available P and Al saturation compared with Kakamega, maize did not respond to inorganic P sources applied in combination with urea. Maize, however, responded when inorganic P sources were applied in combination with FYM or tithonia at this site. At Kakamega, maize responded to TSP but not to MPR or BPR when applied with urea. Application of TSP in combination with tithonia gave the highest maize yields at both sites. Of the tested technologies, only FYM when applied alone at Bukura was economically attractive.