IFDC Report, Volume 13, No. 4
Abstract
This report focuses on the progress and developments made at IFDC headquarters, specifically emphasizing a new soil phosphorus test. The test utilizes iron hydroxide-coated paper strips as collectors for phosphorus in soil suspensions, offering a simple, cost-effective, and accurate method for determining plant-available phosphorus. The report discusses the methodology, its potential applications in various soil types, and ongoing field evaluations. The publication further highlights the work of a Peruvian visiting scientist who studied Bayovar phosphate rock, a potential indigenous fertilizer for Peru's agriculture. The scientist evaluated the agronomic effectiveness of the rock on different crops and soil types, presenting promising results and suggesting further field testing. The report concludes with IFDC's participation in two technical meetings at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT). These meetings aimed to collate soil fertility and fertilizer management knowledge in semi-arid tropical regions, identify challenges, and set research priorities. IFDC representatives contributed presentations on topics such as the world fertilizer market outlook, soil fertility management in semi-arid tropical regions, and simulation models for nutrient dynamics in cropping systems.
Description
Keywords
Less developed countries, Phosphorus