Sustainable agriculture in the tropics: The case of potassium under maize cropping in Togo

Abstract

This article describes a two year study in southern Togo that measured the potassium balance in kaolinitic soils under continuous maize cultivation. As farmers try to keep up with the growing population, fallow periods have almost completely disappeared and as a result, the nutrients in the soil have been depleting. This study suggests different approaches farmers can take to decrease fertilizer use and increase crop production through the use of sustainable practices. Assessments of agricultural practices and nutrient management are very important to addressing problems of food insecurity in areas such as southern Togo.