Enhancing cassava productivity in Nigeria: the role of foliar fertilization in addressing nutrient deficiencies and agroecological challenges

Fertilizer recommendations in Nigeria typically follow a one-size-fits-all approach, which fails to address the diverse agroecological and soil-related constraints. Foliar fertilizers are seldom used, and when used, they are often limited to applying micronutrients such as zinc, boron, or copper. Micronutrient application in cassava cultivation has not received adequate attention, despite widespread deficiencies leading to significant yield losses. Studies have shown that nutrient limitations account for approximately 55.3% of the total cassava yield gap in Nigeria. Given Nigeria's diverse soil and climatic conditions, there is substantial potential for utilizing foliar fertilizers to enhance nutrient management and improve cassava productivity. A major limitation in providing a well-balanced nutrient supply for cassava is the possibility of nutrient interactions that may cause nutrient precipitation or insolubility. We identify where, when, and what type of foliar fertilizers will be most beneficial, focusing on the technical and management aspects of foliar fertilizer use. Considering several factors we conclude that among the different aspects of integrated nutrient management, foliar fertilization in the context of supplementary nutrient application holds the highest potential in Nigeria.