The response of yam (Dioscorea rotundata) to fertilizer application in Northern Ghana

Abstract

SummaryField trials were carried out for three years in the savanna zone of northern Ghana to determine the fertilizer requirements of yam (Dioscorea rotundata). Under the conditions of the experiment, K was not important in yam fertilization. Release from the exchangeable reserves was adequate in meeting the crop demand. A small positive response to P applied at low levels (33·6 kg/ha) was observed and averaged only 5·6% increase in yield. N was the most important nutrient element and its application increased yields highly significantly. On the average, application of 33·6 kg/ha gave an increase of 13·5% and 67·2 kg/ha gave a 22·1% increase in yield. More N did not further increase yield.