Effect of Soil Erosion on Soil Properties and Crop Response in Central Kenya

Abstract

The effect of soil erosion on soil properties and crop response were investigated on run off plots at Kabete, Kenya. The experimental site was selected on the basis of a soil survey carried out in December 1989. The objective of the study was to quantify the impact of soil erosion on soil properties and maize (Zea mays L.) growth and yield on high potential land in Kenya, and to determine the critical factors causing yield reductions. During an initial phase of the experiment, lasting two years ('erosion cycle'), soil surface treatments included soil covers with fine (Tl), medium (1'2) and coarse (T3) wire mesh and a bare soil plot (T5). In addition, two plots were cropped to non-fertilized (T4) and fertilized and mulched (T4F) maize. During the 1993 long- and short-rains, all plots were cropped to maize.