You have no items in your shopping cart.
ABSTRACT
The increasing global population necessitates enhanced agricultural productivity, particularly for staple crops such as cassava, yam, sweet potato, and cocoyam, which are crucial for food security in many regions, especially Nigeria. This study reviews the role of fertilizers in optimizing the yield and quality of these root and tuber crops, focusing on their specific nutrient requirements and the impact of various fertilization strategies. A comprehensive literature search spanning 2010 – 2020 was conducted, analyzing data from multiple studies to determine optimal fertilizer types, application rates, and methods tailored to different ecological zones. The findings reveal significant variability in fertilizer recommendations, emphasizing the necessity for site-specific nutrient management strategies. For cassava, nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) applications of 3000 kg/ha in a single application or a split application of 300 kg/N, 400 kg/P, and 200 kg/K per hectare are recommended in rainforest zones. Similarly, yam production benefits from 200 kg/ha of NPK combined with 10 tons of poultry manure, while sweet potato yields are enhanced with 300 kg/ha of NPK and compost manure. Cocoyam production is optimized with 100 kg/ha of NPK and 5 tons of poultry manure. The integration of organic and inorganic fertilizers alongside split application methods is highlighted as a sustainable approach to improve nutrient use efficiency and soil health. This study shows the importance of localized research and adaptive management practices to enhance agricultural resilience and sustainability in the face of growing food demands.
