Journal of Food, Agriculture and Environment

Indigenous knowledge and practices of soil fertility management among smallholder farmers in semi-arid areas of the North-West province, South Africa

Author(s):

Simeon A. Materechera

Recieved Date: 2013-06-30, Accepted Date: 2013-09-10

Abstract:

Being the case with many other countries in sub-Saharan Africa, crop production among small scale farmers, especially those in semi-arid regions of South Africa, is hampered by predominance of extreme climate (low, irregular and erratic rainfall), low inherent soil fertility and low use of mineral fertilizers. However, small-scale farmers have developed a range of indigenous knowledge and practices which have played a pivotal role in the management of soil fertility for sustaining crop productivity. This study sought to establish and document these strategies in four farming districts located in semi-arid areas of the country.  It was found that farmers use locally adaptable and cost effective strategies including animal manure, ash from veld fire, agroforestry, fallow, termitaria and earthworm castings to manage soil fertility. Some of these strategies were applied in specific niche locations and soils, times and crops. Furthermore, farmers have developed local knowledge and criteria of classifying manure quality based on characteristics such as colour, wetness, presence of moulds and sand content that are used to make soil fertility management decisions. Analyses of samples of some of the organic resources used for soil fertility management confirmed their superior plant nutrient contents. The study concluded that research endeavors should recognize and build upon this wealth of indigenous knowledge and practices of soil fertility management by small scale farmers in these marginal environments of the country.

Keywords:

Indigenous knowledge, nutrient management, semi-arid areas, small-scale farmers, soil fertility, soil nutrients

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Journal: Journal of Food, Agriculture and Environment
Year: 2013
Volume: 11
Issue: 3&4
Category: Environment
Pages: 2781-2787

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