Effects of Liquid Organic Fertilizer on Soil Chemistry, Components and Yields of Maize West of Burkina Faso, West Africa

Abstract

Aims: The aim of this study is to help increase crop yields and soil fertility. Location and Duration of Studies: The study took place in the western part of Burkina Faso. It is based on the use of a liquid organic fertilizer on corn producers' plots. These are soil fertility data and corn agronomic data over three successive campaigns (2021, 2022 and 2023). Methodology: A completely randomized block design with three replications comprising five (05) Treatments was set up. The fertilizers used were : NPK (15-15-15), urea (46%N) and liquid organic fertilizer. The liquid organic fertilizer was made using cowpea flour, neem leaves, sugar and animal waste (cow dung and urine). Soil samples were taken at six periods. The first sample was taken before sowing, followed by four more during cultivation and one just after harvesting. Measurements of height and diameter of the rod were taken on the 30th, 45th, 60th and 75th day after sowing. Results: Results showed that T1 recorded the best pH-water value (6.75) and total phosphorus (410.66 mg/kg). The T4 gave the highest levels of organic carbon (1.5%) and total nitrogen (1.44%). Concerning the cation exchange capacity (CEC), the highest content is obtained with T2 with a value of 10.23 cmol/kg. As for total potassium, the highest content is in T3, at 652.44 mg/kg. At the maturity, T2 has the highest average diameter at 16.35 mm. In terms of height, the absolute control present the tallest plants with an average value of 1.41m. The highest yields were obtained with T4 (1983.23 kg/ha), followed by T2 (1834.9 kg/ha), T1 (1723.43 kg/ha) and T3 (1557.12 kg/ha). Liquid organic fertilizer has been effective in producing grain yields at a rate of 40.58%. Conclusion: The liquid organic fertilizer applied alone has high carbon, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, total potassium and CEC content compared with the control. It was also efficient in grain yield production with a rate of 40.58%. In fact, it is imperative to carry out a test in a paysan environment before popularizing it.