The on-farm experimentation process triggered farmers’ zeal to test technologies in Embu County, Kenya

Maize farmers in Embu County of Kenya rarely adopt research recommendations, partly because they are not involved in the process of generating new information. There is a need to rethink the process of conducting on-farm research to foster knowledge transfer and innovation. Using the On-Farm Experimentation (OFE) approach, this study was conducted to validate a package of soil moisture and fertilizer nitrogen management practices, and to track farmers? adoption of better agronomic practices. Crop residue mulch in combination with calcium ammonium nitrate fertilizer and soil conditioners (hydrogels) coupled with slow-release urea fertilizer were validated against farmer practices. Both management practices increased maize grain yield compared with farmers? practices. Stakeholders observed that these practices improved plant density and vigor, increased grain yield, and reduced weed and pest pressure. The OFE process facilitated the quick adoption and testing of technologies by farmers. At the onset of the third experimentation season, farmers began to experiment with a range of practices, especially mulching and optimal plant density.