EFFECT OF COMPOST ON SOIL CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND MAIZE GROWTH

Abstract

One of the biggest limitations to sustainable production of maize is soil fertility degradation, which is mainly witnessed in high-production intensive systems that are heavily dependent on synthetic fertilizers. The continuous production and poor inputs of organic matter have led to decreasing soil organic carbon, nutrient imbalances, and poor soil chemical conditions, which have eventually lowered crop production. The application of compost has been highly advocated as one of the most effective ways of managing soil sustainability, but there has been little integrated evidence as to how the application of compost improves soil chemical conditions and maize growth and yield. This experiment compared the rate of various composts applied to the chosen soil chemical and maize development in field conditions. They used a randomized complete block study with four treatments that comprised a control (no compost) and three rates of application of compost, repeated three times. To determine the change in soil pH, organic matter, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, exchangeable potassium, and electrical conductivity of the soil, soil samples were taken pre-planting and post-harvest. Findings revealed that the use of compost had a great effect on the soil pH, organic matter, and nutrient availability, which were better than those of the control treatment. The electrical conductivity level rose slightly and was within safe ranges, which showed that the salinity could not be a threat. The results also indicate that the use of compost is sustainable and can be used as an effective method of enhancing the fertility of the soil and maize production. The study presents real-life evidence to illustrate the use of compost-based nutrient management measures to ensure improved crop production, soil health, and sustainable agricultural systems.