Bridging the yield gaps of bread wheat at a scale through an innovative method of lime application in the acidic soils of Northwestern Ethiopia

Abstract

Soil acidity is one of the major constraints for crop production in the highland areas. The finding of a 25% lime application method was recommended to amend the problems. This research was carried to increased productivity of wheat and creates wider demands through strengthening linkages among stakeholders and assesses farmer’s perceptions. It was implemented in the 2018/19 rainy season at four selected districts of the Amhara region. Farmers’ and clusters were selected in collaboration with agricultural extensions. Soil samples were collected and exchangeable acidity was determined. A total of 15.3 tons of wheat seed and 9.2 tons of lime were used which carried on 230 farmers and 102 hectares. Based on the exchangeable acidity one-fourth of lime was applied. The training was given for 288 trainees and field days were organized for 1715 participants for further dissemination. The mean grain yield and marginal rate of return were 4525 kg ha−1 and 252%, respectively; there was a yield advantage of 90.23% compared to the previous year. The overall results showed that the applications of 25% of lime on wheat production were efficient and the real way out for soil acidity problems due to reduced cost and logistics. This research work proved that the technology tremendously increased wheat productivity in the acidic soils and hence; it must be effectively used in the acidic soils at a larger scales through incorporating in the extension packages to address more farmers to meet the food and nutritional security and improves citizens’ livelihoods of the nation.