Ethiopia: spectacular response of indigenous clovers to phosphates

Two researchers from the International Breeding Centre in Africa (CIPEA) presented evidence of the extraordinary response of indigenous African clovers to small to moderate applications of phosphorus. The clovers with the most potential came from the remote areas of the Ethiopian highlands. The problem of phosphorus deficiency in Ethiopian soils is well known, but it is hard to believe that indigenous species could equal, and even surpass, that of imported commercial strains from the developed world, because of their high growth rates. The results of these experiments have important consequences for Ethiopia's fertilizer extension services. They raise new hope for the economic viability of forage crops on high African plains. Commercial fertilizers (phosphate, ammonium superphosphate), recommended to farmers by the extension services are too expensive to be used on a large scale. The discovery of indigenous, leguminous forage plants could have good results, in spite of difficult soil conditions. When combined with small applications of phosphates encouraging results could emerge in the future. Rather than using imported species, cheaper local seeds could be used. As for fertilization, phosphate fertilizer is sufficient during the growing cycle, and will increase yields of food and forage crops, while reducing the unit costs of production. More work is needed if this technique is to be of widespread benefit in the future. Where should research begin? With a more extensive and detailed study of the different plant varieties. The Ethiopian highlands hold a wealth of varieties of clover. C I PEA. P O. Box 5689 Addis Abeba ETHlOPIATwo researchers from the International Breeding Centre in Africa (CIPEA) presented evidence of the extraordinary response of indigenous African clovers to small to moderate applications of phosphorus. The clovers with the most potential came from..