Optimizing Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) Yields in Northwestern Ethiopia: A Comprehensive Study of Key Soil Nutrient Deficiencies

During crop cultivation, improper application of fertilizers can lead to an imbalance in soil nutrients, resulting in decreased crop yield and deterioration of soil health. To determine the optimal fertilizer combinations for crops, omission experiments prove to be the most practical and straightforward approach. This research was conducted in the Habru district, specifically in Sirinka kebele, during the 2021/2022 cropping season. The main objective was to identify the nutrients that limit Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) yield through omission trials in the same district. The test crop utilized in the study was the Melkam variety of Sorghum. The various treatments applied were Control, NPKSBZn, NPKSZn, NPKSB, NPKBZn, NPSBZn, NKSZn, PKSBZn, and RNP, all arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Prior to the experiment, a composite soil sample was collected from the field to assess crucial factors such as pH, soil texture, organic carbon content, cation exchange capacity (CEC), Total N, available P, Exchangeable S, K, Zn, and B. For the analysis of data, the statistical software SAS version 9.3 was employed to conduct variance analysis. The results from the analysis of variance revealed that the treatment with fully fertilized plots (NPKZnSB) achieved the highest grain yield of 4,144.14 kg ha-1. Following closely was the treatment with sulfur omission (NPKZnB) producing 4,100.0 kg ha-1, whereas the unfertilized treatments only yielded 2,595.32 kg ha-1. In addition to grain yield, the plots treated with NPKSB exhibited the highest agronomic efficiency of N and P. As a consequence, it is imperative for research and development efforts to prioritize nitrogen for achieving optimal sorghum production in the study area. Simultaneously, phosphorus can be strategically employed to maintain optimal fertility levels in the soil. To enhance crop productivity and sustainable agriculture practices, this study highlights the significance of balanced fertilizer application and the importance of understanding the nutrient requirements specific to Sorghum crops in the Habru district. By adopting such knowledge, farmers, and policymakers can make informed decisions and contribute to the overall agricultural development of the region.