Soil fertility refers to the ability of soil to provide essential nutrients and support plant growth. It is a crucial factor for successful agriculture, influencing crop yields, plant health, and the sustainability of farming practices.
In Kenya, maintaining soil fertility is fundamental for agricultural productivity and food security. The country’s diverse agro-ecological zones require different soil management strategies to optimize crop production and ensure long-term soil health.
Examples:
- Implementing crop rotation in Kenyan farms can enhance soil fertility by reducing soil erosion and increasing soil organic matter.
- The use of green manures and cover crops can naturally enrich the soil, improving its structure and nutrient content.
Effective soil fertility management includes regular soil testing to determine nutrient needs, incorporating organic matter into the soil, and adopting practices like crop rotation and intercropping to maintain or improve soil health, ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity.
Related Terms: Nutrient management, Organic matter, Crop rotation, Soil testing, Sustainable agriculture
