Kenyatta University

Research Sites

The trial sites are Machang'a (0°46, 55.91 S and 37°39, 33.75E and elevation 1097 m a.s.l) and Embu (0°31, 01.95 S and 37°27, 32.49 E at elevation 1453 m a.s.l) (Fig 1) in Eastern Kenya. Embu represents a densely populated high potential humid area with Humic Nitosols and generally annual rainfall above 800 mm.

Areas of the sub-humid Mbeere sub-county are emblematic of a low agricultural potential with less fertile and low soil water-holding Ferralsols, frequent droughts and annual rainfall of less than 600 mm.

Fig 1. Experimental sites (Machang'a and Embu)

The team agreed to use the trials on Soil Organic Matter (SOM) and integrated soil fertility management (ISFM). Trials on SOM tests five organic residues (Tithonia diversifolia, Calliandra calothyrsus, stover, sawdust and manure) at different rates; replicated three times. The organic materials in ISFM Trial include Lantana camara, Mucuna pruriens, Tithonia diversifolia and cattle manure.