Abstract
Cutting and carrying of mulch from established tree plots is an alternative to in situ mulch in agroforestry systems. Through the cut-and-carry method, the undesirable effects of tree-crop competition characterized by in situ mulching can be avoided. An economic evaluation of the cut-and-carry method of providing nutrients for maize production was carried out based on investigations in south-western Nigeria. The results showed that the use of mulch from multi-purpose trees (MPTs) through the cut-and-carry method contributed to higher maize grain yields than those obtained with fertilizer or in the untreated controls. However, because of high labour requirements and scarcity of land in the study area, providing nutrients for crop production by this method is unprofitable both in the short and the long term. This may serve as a constraint for the adoption of this technology by farmers. Alternative options requiring less labour and land requirements should be investigated in the quest to replace shifting cultivation.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
