Nutrient Management Strategies for Poverty Alleviation in Guizhou

This project was initiated in October 2001 as part of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) sponsored project in alleviating poverty by developing and transferring soil management knowledge and practices that improve crop productivity and farmers’ income. Soil samples were taken from the two counties (Ziyun and Zhijin) and analyzed for available nutrient status. Field trials and demonstrations were conducted on corn and potato. Training courses for farmers and Harvest Field Days/Field Inspections for Leaders were conducted to popularize the basic science and to speed up technology transfer.

Results showed that the soils in Zhucangzheng Township, Zhijin County were calcareous (pH 8.2) and deficient in nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), and boron (B). Balanced fertilizers with 105-60-150 kg N-P₂O₅-K₂O/ha plus S, Zn, and B significantly increased potato yield by 4.7 t/ha (46%), versus common farmer practice of applying 75-45-0 kg/ha, by 3.5 t/ha (31%), versus the zero P treatment, and by 2.5 t/ha (20%), versus the zero K treatment. Compared to common farmer practice, potato starch and protein content were considerably improved (14 and 2% higher, respectively) with balanced fertilization. Similarly, balanced corn fertilization of 180-150-225 kg/ha plus S, Zn, Fe, and B significantly increased yield by 1.7 t/ha (22%) versus common farmer practice (70-50-0 kg/ha) and by 1.4 t/ha (19%) versus the zero K treatment. The contents of starch and protein were 5 and 1% higher in the balanced fertilization plots versus plots treated with common farmer practice. Net income was increased by US$260/ha in potato and US$68/ha for corn compared to farmer practice.

In Shuitang Township, Ziyun County, the acidic (pH 5.4) soils are deficient in P and K. Balanced fertilization with 264-243-225 kg/ha significantly increased rice yield by 1.7 t/ha (22%), protein content by 2%, and net income by US$114/ha, compared to common farmer practice (75-50-0 kg/ha). In corn, balanced fertilization with 150-150-180 kg/ha significantly increased yield by 3 t/ha (50%), protein content by 1%, and net income by US$245/ha.

The first year of field research and demonstrations showed that balanced fertilization will improve crop yield, quality, and farmers’ net income. This technology is ready to be transferred to the surrounding vicinity in areas with similar soil types and fertilizer management style. Guizhou NMS05 PA