Evaluation of Chemical Properties of Post-Harvest Soil of Maize as Affected by Application of Organic Manure of Diverse Sources Along with Urea

Abstract

Appropriate fertilizer use leads to increased crop yields and high crop recovery of the applied nutrients. Some elements may be hazardous to soil as well as environment if used in extreme quantities in various forms, i.e. nitrates and phosphates. Efficient fertilization is therefore important in ensuring crops attain maturity within specific growing seasons(Okalebo, 1987).Effectiveness of fertilizers therefore depends on the chemical and physical properties, rate and method of application, soil and climatic conditions and the crop species grown (Mokwunye and Bationo, 2002). In recent years, there has been an increased use of high mineral fertilizers, mainly for economic reasons. Examples of inorganic fertilizers used include50%Urea, diammonium phosphate (DAP) and triple super phosphate (TSP) fertilizers (Smalling et al., 1997).