Impediments to efficient fertilizer application among small holder farmers on marginal soils of Aba Agricultural Zone, Nigeria: Implication for extension

Abstract

The study investigated the impediments to efficient fertilizer application amongst small holder farmers on marginal soils of Aba Agricultural zone, Abia State. Five blocks were randomly selected out of thirteen existing blocks. Fifty respondents were randomly sampled from each block for data collection using structured questionnaire. Analysis of data was carried out using descriptive statistical tools. The results showed that farmers apply fertilizers at the appropriate time (mean = 4.34), farmers do not apply appropriate rate of fertilizers to attract a yield response (mean = 2.83), farmers do not adopt proper application methods (mean = 3.20). It was therefore recommended that extension services should be intensified in the rural communities through establishment of demonstration plots, regular agricultural extension agents’ visits, workshops and training for small-holder farmers on efficient fertilizer use.