EXAMINING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF CROP ROTATION AND SOIL FERTILITY MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES IN SMALLHOLDER FARMING SYSTEMS

Abstract

 Soil fertility decline remains a major constraint to agricultural productivity and sustainability in smallholder farming systems across sub-Saharan Africa. This study evaluated the effects of crop rotation combined with integrated soil fertility management on soil health, nutrient dynamics, and crop productivity in the Mount Bamboutos ecosystem of Cameroon. A mixed-methods experimental approach was employed, integrating multi-season field experiments with participatory qualitative assessments. Quantitative results showed significant increases in soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, and available phosphorus under cereal–legume rotation systems compared to baseline management practices. Crop yields and nutrient-use efficiency improved consistently across experimental plots, demonstrating enhanced productivity and yield stability under integrated nutrient inputs. Graphical analyses further revealed strong relationships between soil fertility indicators and crop performance, highlighting the role of organic matter accumulation and nutrient cycling in system resilience. Seasonal trends confirmed cumulative soil fertility gains and reduced spatial variability under agroecological management. Qualitative findings corroborated these results, with farmers reporting improved soil structure, moisture retention, and reduced vulnerability to climatic stress. Overall, the study confirms that agroecological crop rotation combined with integrated nutrient management significantly improves soil fertility, productivity, and resilience, offering a sustainable and scalable solution for smallholder agriculture in nutrient-depleted and climate-sensitive environments.