Abstract
Micronutrient status of top soils (0 - 25 cm) collected from intensively cultivated soils (typic dystrandept) in the Bambouto highland of Cameroon was investigated. Thirty-six soil samples were collected within a 100 m × 100 m grid. 16 of them were analyzed for pH, organic carbon, cation exchange capacity (CEC), Total N (totN), available P, exchangeable K, Ca and Mg, and 36 samples were analyzed for Cu, Mn, Fe and Zn. The status of trace elements was compared with soil critical levels and soil-based risk thresholds, and was declared deficient, sufficient or toxic. The soils were generally, slightly acidic, of high organic and nitrogen status and of adequate concentrations in exchangeable bases and available P. Mean values of Fe, Cu, Mn and Zn were 58.59, 0.52, 29.20 and 4.99 ppm, respectively. Relative to critical levels, 53% and 8% of the soils examined were deficient in Cu and Zn respectively while in all soils, Fe and Mn were above critical levels. The concentrations of the micronutrients investigated (except for Fe in 3% of the soils) were lower than toxic thresholds prescribed by European Economic Community (EEC) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Farmers’ current level of agricultural intensification has no threats on micronutrient toxicity. However, because of Cu and Zn deficiency observed in some fields, an analysis of spatial variability is required to guide site specific soil nutrient management. Furthermore, in order to obtain quality produce and protect the environment, a balanced fertilizer recommendation including NPK + Cu + Zn is required for intensively cultivated typic dystrandept soils in the Bambouto highlands.
Highlights
The soils in the Bambouto highlands of Cameroon are of volcanic origin and are intensively used for agriculture
Thirty-six soil samples were collected within a 100 m × 100 m grid. 16 of them were analyzed for pH, organic carbon, cation exchange capacity (CEC), Total N, available P, exchangeable K, Ca and Mg, and 36 samples were analyzed for Cu, Mn, Fe and Zn
53% and 8% of the soils examined were deficient in Cu and Zn respectively while in all soils, Fe and Mn were above critical levels
Summary
The soils in the Bambouto highlands of Cameroon are of volcanic origin and are intensively used for agriculture. In the potato-based cropping system, farmers grow two-to-three crops per year. Continuous cropping on this soil is sustained by heavy dependence on agricultural inputs (herbicides, fungicides, mineral fertilizers, and livestock and poultry manure). The level of agricultural intensification in the Bambouto highland is driven by increasing human population, urbanization in neighboring towns and cities and ready markets. Because of high demand for potato and vegetables and high economic benefits from potatobased cropping systems, farmers may likely overuse pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and animal manure to boost crop production in order to meet market demand
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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.
