An evaluation of the effect of hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth) on soil fertility of sandy soils in central Zimbabwe
Abstract
172 words
Crop production in smallholder farming systems of Zimbabwe
is limited by low inherent soil fertility, particularly N and P and
available soil moisture. The use of efficient N fixing legumes is
one way that can sustain soil fertility and conserve soil and
moisture. Efforts to improve and manage soil fertility and soil
and water conservation problems are hampered by the fact
that the range of legume options available for use on depleted
sandy soils, common in Zimbabwe smallholder farms and many
other countries of Southern Africa, is narrow. In this study, the
effect of hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth) on the fertility of
sandy soils will be evaluated at three study sites and compared
with Sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea L.) and Cowpea (Vigna
unguiculata). The effects will be assessed by determining the
biomass production and fertility benefits of the three legumes
to a succeeding maize crop and when planted as intercrops.
Preliminary results have shown that sunnhemp has the greatest
biomass yield followed by cowpea and hairy vetch has the
lowest yield.
Subjects
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