Abstract
Soil fertility is the major determinant of output in Oku today. The objective of this study is based on the techniques used by rural farmers to maximize output on an advanced deteriorating soil. This phenomenon has not only impinged on output but limits the quality of food available to this agricultural dependent people. Over the years, soil constituents became exhausted as a result of continuous cultivation. The planting of Leucaena and Tephrosia tree species in farms played a challenging role in ameliorating output. The methodology adopted by this study centered on the administration of questionnaires, observation, interviews and field visits. A total of 38 Leucaena and Tephrosia trees were counted on four nearby farms. In these farms selected maize seeds were planted at regular ring distance around the trees. The results obtained revealed that, quality maize was harvested at closer perimeter to the soil fertilizer trees. This strategy maximized sustainable soil management and promoted agro forestry activities in Oku. The study concluded that soil fertility is improved upon by planting soil fertilizer trees in farms. At least one of these tree species is identified in farms in Oku.
Highlights
Continuous cultivation leads to low soil fertility, enhances nutrient depletion, accelerate degradation leading to low crop yields
Farmers realize the best maize harvest at a closer perimeter to the soil fertilizer trees. This strategy maximizes healthy maize production, sustainable soil management and promoting agro forestry activities. Both Leucaena and Tephrosia trees are the dominant species planted in Oku
Agro forestry practices are important in organic reconstitution of the soil
Summary
Continuous cultivation leads to low soil fertility, enhances nutrient depletion, accelerate degradation leading to low crop yields. Subsistent farmers lack major farm inputs promoting a decline in soil fertility. Crop Yields largely depend on soil fertility, water availability, quality of seeds and farming techniques. Soil fertility has drastically fallen with fallows shortening and even disappearing to make place for continuous farming [1]. Sustainable agricultural practice remains the best way of ensuring food production as a result seeking to strike a balance between production and consumption. The selective planting of manure tree species is the back bone of ensuring a sustainable agriculture
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