Fertilizer studies on Uganda soils

Abstract

Experiments conducted over several years and with various crops have shown that primary expectations of large yield responses to fertilizers have not been fulfilled. More detailed and necessarily slower work, which must now follow, may lead to larger yield responses. Foremost among the new series of experiments are the investigations regarding the source,duration and magnitude of accumulated nitrate nitrogen.Routine experiments have clearly shown that no spectacular yield responses are likely to be obtained except on soils of known low nutrient status. Stress must now be laid on the necessity for patient and detailed work along lines which these trials have indicated. Fundamental problems such as nitrate accumullation, phosphate fixation under these conditions, and potash requirements under various intensities of solar radiation must be solved. Even where these are solved, the question of time and method of applying proven fertilizers present important problems. These recommendations applied later when improved cultural practices and other major improvements have been achieved would no doubt become of real value to the territory.