Effect of Saw Dust on Soil Physical and

Chemical Properties in Ntenjeru Sub

county, Mukono District.
Under Graduate Special Project Thesis

Mukiibi Edward

05/U/339

A Special project report submitted to the Department of Soil

Science in partial fulfillment of the requirements of the award of a
Bachelor of Science Degree in Agricultural Land Use and
Management of Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.

June 2008

PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY FOR AGRICULTURAL LAND MANAGERS

UGANDA
 Dedication
This study report is dedicated to the family of Mr. Wali Christopher Magala of Ntenjeru sub
county, Mukono district; you are my life time gift and source of inspiration. No body knows
better.

ediemukiibi ‘08 i
 Acknowledgements

This study was entirely sponsored by my parents to whom am so grateful for their
contribution towards the success of this work up to this stage. I would also like to extend my
appreciation to the staff of Soil Science Department for providing the laboratory space and
other related logistics and support during the period of study. Special thanks go to Mr.
Balikuddembe Bonny of Soil Science Analytical Laboratories of the Soil Science
Department for your kind help to me at no monetary cost during laboratory analysis through
out the study period.

I would also like to express my sincere thanks to Professor Moses M. Tenywa for your
advice and guidance through out the study period. Your methods of work and constructive
criticisms indeed helped me to discover the science of organizing field generated figures and
numbers into a well organized and sought out scientific document like this. From you I learnt
to be thorough in what ever I do.

Lastly my immeasurable appreciation goes to Dr. Twaha Ateenyi of Soil Science Department
for your encouragement during hard times through the study. I pray that God the almighty
reward you accordingly.

ediemukiibi ‘08 ii
Table of contents

Dedication.................................................................................................................................. i
Acknowledgements................................................................................................................... ii
List of tables ............................................................................................................................. v
List of figures........................................................................................................................... vi
Acronyms................................................................................................................................ vii
Abstract..............................................................................................................................viiviii
CHAPTER ONE 1
1.0 Background and setting ................................................................................................ 1
1.1 Problem statement ........................................................................................................ 2
1.2 Objectives ..................................................................................................................... 3
1.3 Significance of the Study.............................................................................................. 3
CHAPTER TWO 4
2.1 Over view of Soil degradation in Sub Saharan Africa ................................................. 4
2.2 Soil productivity and soil degradation in Uganda ........................................................ 5
2.3 Enhancing Soil Productivity for Increased Agricultural Production............................ 5
2.4 Organic Soil Amendments and Soil Productivity Management................................... 6
2.5 Role of mulches in soil productivity management ....................................................... 8
CHAPTER THREE 10
3.1 Study area ................................................................................................................... 10
3.2 Experimental design and treatment ............................................................................ 10
3.3 Data analysis............................................................................................................... 11
3.3.1 Soil analysis ................................................................................................................ 11
3.3.2 Plant analysis .............................................................................................................. 11
3.3.3 Statistical analysis....................................................................................................... 12
CHAPTER FOUR 13
4.1 Effects of saw dust Application on soil properties ..................................................... 13
4.1.1 Soil pH ........................................................................................................................ 13
4.1.2 Soil Organic matter..................................................................................................... 14

ediemukiibi ‘08 iii

4.1.3 Soil Nitrogen............................................................................................................... 15
4.1.4 Available Phosphorus ................................................................................................. 16
4.1.5 Soil Exchangeable bases (K and Ca) .......................................................................... 17
4.1.6 Soil aggregation .......................................................................................................... 17
4.2 Maize Crop response to Saw Dust Application.......................................................... 18
4.2.1 Effect of saw dust application on maize plant height (cm). ....................................... 19
4.2.2 Effect of saw dust application on maize leaf width (cm) and number of leaves ........ 20
4.3 Relationship between maize plant height (cm) and number of leaves, soil pH, Organic
matter and soil nitrogen. ......................................................................................................... 21
CHAPTER FIVE 24
5.1 Conclusion .................................................................................................................. 24
5.2 Recommendations....................................................................................................... 24
References............................................................................................................................... 26
Appendices ............................................................................................................................. 32

ediemukiibi ‘08 iv
 List of tables

Table 1: Soil properties before planting and application of saw dust in the first season-------13
Table 2: Soil response to application of saw dust in the first growing season-------------------18
Table 3: Soil response to application of saw dust in the second growing season---------------18
Table 4: effect of saw dust application on maize plant height (cm) ------------------------------19

ediemukiibi ‘08 v
 List of figures
Figure 1: Response of Maize Leaf Width to Saw Dust Application ------------------------ 20
Figure 2: Relationship between Maize Plant Height (Cm) and the Number of Leaves -- 21
Figure 3: Maize Plant Height (Cm) – Soil pH Relationship---------------------------------- 22
Figure 4: Maize Plant Height (Cm) – Organic Matter Relationship ------------------------ 23
Figure 5: Maize Plant Height (Cm) – Soil Nitrogen (%) --------------------------------------23

ediemukiibi ‘08 vi
 Acronyms

SOM: Soil Organic Matter

SSA: Sub Saharan Africa
UEEF: Uganda Environmental Education Foundation
CIAT: International Center for Tropical Agriculture
CRBD: Completely Randomized Block Design
NGOs: Non Governmental Organizations
LSD: List Significant Difference
MWD: Mean Weight Diameter

ediemukiibi ‘08 vii

 Abstract

In their transition to certified organic agricultural production, farmers in Ntenjeru sub county
use saw dust as an organic soil amendment. The use of saw dust has been reported to cause
problems like nitrogen immobilization and pH variations due to the high C/N ratio associated
with saw dust which also affects plant growth. So the major objective of the study was to
improve on the understanding of the effects of saw dust on soil conditions. The study was
carried out for two maize growing seasons on farm trials established at Kisoga village,
Ntenjeru Sub County in Mukono district from September 2007 to June 2008. The treatments
were; mulching with saw dust, Incorporation of saw dust into the soil and the control plot (no
saw dust) in a completely randomized block design with maize as a test crop.
Treatments where saw dust was applied as mulch significantly reduced soil nitrogen level
and soil pH. This also had a significant reduction in the growth of maize characteristics like
Height, leaf number and width. Incorporation of saw dust also inhibited the spply of soil
nitrogen but unlike in mulching, incorporation of saw dust significantly increased the supply
of calcium, potassium, which significantly increased the soil pH and hence favoured the
growth of maize as compared to the mulched plots. Soil organic matter levels were
significantly higher in saw dust applied treatments than in the control plots but the
application of saw dust did not have any significant influence on the soil phosphorus levels
and soil aggregation through out the study period.
This study concluded that in Ntenjeru Sub County it is better to use saw dust incorporated
into the soil than applying it on the surface as mulch. Samples of saw dust should be sent to
soil testing laboratory to analyze the C/N ratio and nutrient contents prior to its application as
a soil amendment by farmers.

ediemukiibi ‘08 viii

 CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION

1.0 Background and setting

Agriculture as the main source of livelihood and food security in the Sub Saharan Africa
(SSA) region, and in Uganda specifically, is facing a challenge of matching food, fodder,
fuel and fibre production with population growth. For the period 1994 to 1998, 70% of SSA
population lived in areas where the average population growth rate exceeded the average
growth rate in per capita food production (FAO, 1999), Uganda inclusive. Although by the
year 2003, Uganda’s average annual growth rate in food production and population stood at
4.1 and 3.0%, respectively (FAO, 2006), it is important to note that the country’s arable land
area is limited, yet qualitatively diminishing under the forces of widespread soil degradation
(Lufafa et al., 2003). It is imperative therefore that resource productivity be increased in
order to bridge the gap between per capita food production and population growth. This calls
for increased use of inputs such as clean irrigation water, organic manures fertilizers and
crop protection techniques, which impact on the economics of agricultural production,
environmental quality as well as Soil fertility.

The fertility of soils is central to the sustainability of both natural and managed ecosystems.
(Wasswa et al, 2003). This is because it is the medium from which terrestrial production
emanates (Scholes et al 1994. soil organic matter (SOM) plays an important role in
maintaining soil texture, water holding capacity, the micro biomass and in nutrient cycling
among others (Angers and Caron 1998). It also helps in improving the drainage and aeration
properties of the root zone and acts as a great source of nutrients to the growing plants
(Starbuck, 1994).
The decline of Soil Organic Matter with cropping is a major factor affecting sustainability of
many cropping systems in sub Saharan Africa (Buyanovzky et al 1984). Nutrients have been
depleted by crop harvest removals, leaching, volatilization and soil erosion to the extent to
which soil fertility replenishment has been recommended by Izac, (1997) as a necessary
investment in natural resource capital. Studies also indicate that soil physical, biological and

ediemukiibi ‘08 1
chemical properties can sustainably be improved through the improvement of SOM (Paul
1984). This can be done through practices like mulching and addition of organic manures
(Unger 2001). One of such important soil amendments is Sawdust mulch. That is currently
used in Ntenjeru Sub County. Saw dust is mainly surface applied mulch used in ginger and
garlic organic gardens. According to Unger (2001), surface applied mulches serve to reduce
soil water evaporation thus enhancing the potential for increased soil water conservation.
This is highly important for improving crop production in tropical rain fed agriculture. (Jacks
et al 1955). The use of these inputs in agricultural production needs to be optimized in
relation to economic and environmental quality considerations. This necessitates thorough
understanding of the system response to applications of such inputs, which can only come
from long-term experiments with the inputs in the farming system.

1.1 Problem statement

In their transition to certified organic agricultural production, farmers in Ntenjeru sub county
use saw dust as an organic soil amendment. The use of sawdust has been reported to perform
poorly when used in different environments. (Starbuck, 1994). McDonald (1953) found out
that if used under uncontrolled conditions, sawdust whether used as mulch or incorporated
into the soil, could result into problems like soil nitrogen immobilization. Also Starbuck
(1994) justified that saw dust contains 50% carbon, 6% hydrogen, 44% oxygen and perhaps
0.1% nitrogen. This is generally because soil microbes use nitrogen to break down the
complex materials in sawdust since it is composed of about 70% carbohydrates (cellulose
and hemicellulose) and 27% lignin (Starbuck 1994, Mc Donald 1953). This utilization of
nitrogen by the microbes leads to a quick depletion of the entire supply of nitrogen in the soil
(White et al 1934). Hence it is important to assess the effects sawdust imparts to the soil
physical and chemical properties prior to its application in an area. So optimizing of the use
of saw dust as a soil amendment in Ntenjeru Sub County is dependent on predicting the
efficiency of transfer of nutrients and the subsequent effects to the plants and the soil system
in the area. Although there is substantial literature on the response of soil and crops to such

ediemukiibi ‘08 2
organic soil amendments (Swift 1994), there are very few studies that separate the variety of
effects involved.

1.2 Objectives
The general objective of this study is to improve on the understanding of the effects of
sawdust on soil conditions. The specific objectives are;
a) To find out the effects of sawdust on soil nutrients like N, P, K, and Ca
b) To establish the influence of sawdust on soil pH, soil aggregation, and soil
organic matter

1.3 Significance of the Study

As stated by Kirsch (1959), the value of saw dust and other wood wastes as mulches or soil
amendment has received considerable study. How ever a need exists for more complete
information to farmers regarding the effects of these materials on both physical and chemical
properties of soils to which they are added. (Kirsch, 1959). There fore since the major
obstacle hindering the efficient utilization of saw dust by the farmers is the lack of adequate
understanding on the effects of this soil amendment on the nature of resultant soil organic
matter and other soil properties. This study is important to farmers and decision makers in
soil management to understand and evaluate the changes in selected soil physical and
chemical properties as influenced by the application of saw dust either as mulch on the
surface or incorporated into the soil.

ediemukiibi ‘08 3
 CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Over view of Soil degradation in Sub Saharan Africa

Soil degradation is a major problem and wide spread in Sub Saharan Africa. Agriculture
lands are especially prone to erosion and nutrient depletion (Sara 1999). Reported yield
losses range from modest levels (2% decline one several decades) to catastrophic greater
than 50% depending on the soil type, crop, climate and production systems (Sara, 1999)
Dragne (1990) reported that 33 countries found compelling evidence of serious soil
degradation in sub regions of 13 countries, Uganda inclusive. It was also estimated by
Dragne and Chou (1992) that over 73% of the dry lands in SSA were degraded and 51%
hosting severely degraded soil. In Africa, Oldeman et al (1991) concluded that 65% of soil
on agricultural land has become degraded since the middle of the 20th century as had 31% of
permanent pastures and 19% of woodlands and forests. Soil degradation in SSA mainly
affects dry land soils and agricultural land with 72% and 19% respectively (Sara, 1999).
Among the most prominent causes of soil degradation in SSA include water erosion,
followed by wind erosion, chemical degradation (nutrient depletion and salinization) and
physical degradation and human activities like over grazing, agricultural crop production,
deforestation and over exploitation of soil resources (Sara, 1999).

Soil degradation among other factors has the largest impact on agricultural productivity in
Sub-Saharan Africa. According to Oldeman, (1998), the productivity loss in Africa from soil
degradation since Second War World has been estimated at 25% for cropland and 8-14% for
crop land and pasture together. Similarly, Dragne (1990) estimated that irreversible soil
productivity losses of at least 20% were due to soil erosion which occurred over the past
century in parts of twelve S.S.A countries including Uganda. It is worrying to see that in
originally fertile lands, under continuous cropping without nutrient inputs and better soil
management, cereal grain yields declined from 2 to 4 tons ha-1 to under one ton ha-1 (Sanchez
et al, 1997). The effect of soil degradation was best reviewed by Lal (1995) who emphasized
that in the absence of such causes and components of soil degradation, 3.6 millions tons

ediemukiibi ‘08 4
more of cereal, 6.5 million tones more of root tubers and 0.4 million tons more of pulses
would have been produced in 1989.

2.2 Soil productivity and soil degradation in Uganda

Like in many developing countries, the loss of soil productivity and one of the major causes
of soil degradation in Uganda is largely due to poor tillage methods, over grazing, burning,
lack of recycling, leaching ad nutrient using through harvesting, Zake (1993). Although the
problem of soil degradation in Uganda has not been quantified, it is clearly observable
(Semana 1994). There is a lot of nutrient removal as a result of crop harvesting for example
annual crops like maize, cassava and tobacco remove a lot of nutrients if grown every year
without replenishment (Semana, 1994). This problem is also accelerated by the high rates of
population growth. Kabera et al (1989) asserted that the rapid population growth affects
attainment of fundamental goals which undermines the country’s ability to alleviate rural
poverty through agricultural incomes. This has affected a number of districts especially in the
South Western Uganda in the Kigezi area where the rhetoric on soil degradation in the
highlands almost invariably paints an image of imminent disaster, and has done so since the first
colonial agricultural officers arrived in the 1940s (Simon Bolwig, 2002)

To combat soil degradation and improve soil productivity, Semana (1994) points out the role
played by some farmer but other stake holders like politicians have put in very little effort in
solving this problem. This is due to constitutional, cultural or social economic and technical
constraints in most cases.

2.3 Enhancing Soil Productivity for Increased Agricultural Production

Sustained agricultural production and controlled soil degradation can be achieved through
investment in soil productivity enhancement (Bunting 1992). This is important especially
when we want to overcome hunger and poverty amongst the smallholder farmers who are the
majority amongst all the stakeholders in agricultural production in S.S.A (Micheni, 1996).
Enhancing soil productivity in Sub-Saharan Africa is limited by a number of factors.
According to Rubaihayo (1990), soil productivity enhancement is mainly challenged by the

ediemukiibi ‘08 5
lack of capital by smallholder farmers to purchase soil amendments and other inputs
including fertilizers and coffee husks or hire labour to spread mulching materials. On the
other hand Zake et al. (1994) indicated that some farmers who adopt some sustainable soil
management practices such as use of organic manures and mulches of various types realized
high levels of production.

The use of mineral fertilizers and synthetic soil amendments has been recommended for long
and popularized by farmers but the adoption of these external inputs based technologies for
soil productivity enhancement is mainly constrained by high costs, relative to the low farm
returns and the inaccessibility of such inputs to the resource poor farmers in SSA (Micheni
1996, Micheni et al, 2004). Most farmers apply insufficient or no soil productivity
enhancement inputs to refurnish the degraded soil (DAREP, 1995). However, a number of
farmers in SSA have adopted, through indigenous knowledge, a number of low cost
sustainable soil productivity management practices and in some places these are operational.

2.4 Organic Soil Amendments and Soil Productivity Management

Most soil scientists agree that organic matter plays a key role in tropical soil management.
This is true even of production systems using high external inputs. (Karl and Johannes,
1997). Young et al (1976) reveals that the significance of organic mass in tropical soils is
greater than any other soil characteristic with an exception of soil moisture. (Sanchez 1976),
also emphasized that the maintenance of organic matter through crop residues is of a
fundamental importance to the productivity of tropical soils. In practical terms, this means
that the proper management of tropical soils which have only recently come under
cultivation must aim to maintain both the structure as well as the content of organic matter in
soils that have been cultivated beyond their capacity.(Ignantieff and Emos, 1963). The aim
should de to improve on the management of plant residues from crops and trees to improve
the soil structure and the organic matter content. Zake (1993); Agboola and Corey (1973);
and Unger (2001), reviewed similar statements on the importance of organic residue
management on typical weathered tropical soils.

ediemukiibi ‘08 6
Farmers in Africa utilize a wide range of locally derived organic and inorganic material for
soil productivity management (Swift 1994). These include crop residues, saw dust, litter and
prunings from trees, green – cut herbage, green manures, farm yard manures, House hold and
industrial wastes and many others (Lles and Dosman 1999).

The use organic soil amendments such as farming and manure, compost and plant residues
are known to improve soil fertility in many cropping system (Verma and Bhagat 1992,
Sharma et al 1995). These help improve soil productivity through building up of soil organic
matter (Micheni et al, 2004; Lles and Dosman, 1999; Wasswa et al, 2003). The organic
nutrient sources may be alternative to mineral fertilizers but it is preferred that are used
jointly with chemical fertilizers formation benefits as far as soil productivity enhancement is
concerned.

To effectively improve the level of SOM in degraded and over used soil, De Ridder and Van
Keulen (1990), recommend that large quantities of the organic inputs are continuously
applied on erosion free cultivated fields. These materials are readily available in quantities
that can be of great importance to farmers and easy to apply (Verma and Sharma, 2000).
They can either be incorporated into the soil or applied on the surface as mulch. Whether
used as mulch or incorporated into the soil organic amendments provide a number of benefits
as far as soil productivity is concerned (Wasswa et al 2003; Verma and Sharma 2000)
However the choice for method of application significantly depends on the C/N ratio of the
material (Karl and Johannes, 1992; white et al 1934) and even the environment where it is
applied (Thomas, 1975).
On that note, Jagnow (1967) therefore recommend that for most parts, materials having a
high C/N ratio for example saw dust with more than 500:1 (Starbuck 1994) should be used as
mulch in humid tropics. The C/N ratio of organic materials has a great effect on their rate of
decomposition. Materials with a low C/N ratio decompose relatively quicker than the ones
with a higher C/N ratio. So in case nutrient release is urgent in some farming systems with
short growing seasons, the latter should be incorporated into the soil (Sanders 1953). The
time of application of the organic soil amendments also vary from one amendment to

ediemukiibi ‘08 7
another, but Lal (1975) recommends that whenever possible, organic materials whether
applied as mulch or incorporated into soil be applied before or at the beginning of the first
heavy rains. This is because numerous experiments in various climatic zones of SSA have
demonstrated that organic materials especially mulches are considerably more effective when
applied at this time (Ramaswami, 1979).

2.5 Role of mulches in soil productivity management

Mulching plays a considerably great role in enhancement of soil productivity Zake (1993).
Surface applied organic amendments reduce soil water evaporation (Unger 2001) thus
enhancing the potential for increased soil water conservation which is highly important for
improving soil productivity in SSA. Lal (1975) also showed that mulching with organic
residues prevented excessive high temperatures, decreased soil runoff and soil erosion. Also
other researchers like Salou et al, (1987); Bhattacharyya and Madhava, (1989), noted an
increase in crop yields especially in bananas

However, according to studies by Pereira (1953), mulching is far more effective in

promoting infiltration than it is in reducing evaporation. Ali and Prassad (1975) also found
out from their long term experiments in India that the effect was practically non-existent on
plots where organic residues were applied to prevent evaporation in the dry period. Pain and
Pain (1977) also reveal that, plants are well established under organic amendments especially
when semi rotted mulch rich in lignin was removed temporarily for planting and then
covered the soil again completely once. There fore, in the long term, soil coverage should be
as permanent as possible, since only then are the beneficial effects of mulch fully expressed.
(Karl and Johannes 1997)

As emphasized earlier on, soil organic inputs can effectively act as alternatives to mineral
fertilizers, however, the low quality high labour requirements and low production levels are
the major constraints to the use of these valuable nutrient sources (Kihanda, 1998). Zake et al
(1994) also adds that on being bulky, mulching and other organic materials may harbour
pests and diseases which may be part of the ecology to be conserved. Other limitations

ediemukiibi ‘08 8
include bulkiness, alternative uses like feeds and beddings to livestock and sources of
energy. These materials are required in tones per hectare for example large quantities 5-10
tons ha-1 of farm yard manure are required to provide fraction of what would be needed to
maintain soil productivity at a desired level (Kihanda 1998, Micheni et al 2004).

ediemukiibi ‘08 9
 CHAPTER THREE
MATERIALS AND METHODS
3.1 Study area
A field experiment was conducted at Kisoga central village, Ntenjeru Sub County, Mukono
district for two planting seasons (September-December 2007 and March-June 2008.)
Ntenjeru Sub County is located in the southern part of Mukono district near the lake shores
of Lake Victoria. The climate is influenced by Mabira forest reserve and Lake Victoria. The
sub county has two rainy seasons (March - June and august -December) and two dry seasons
(June – July and January) which greatly influence the activities in the farming system.
Ntenjeru sub-county lies in a banana – coffee vanilla intensive farming system. Towards the
shores of Lake Victoria at Katosi landing site, fishing is an important component of the
system. This farming system in Ntenjeru has been reached by many secondary stakeholders
who included individuals, NGOs like CIAT and UEEF, government departments,
cooperative societies like Kisoga savings and cooperative society and traders.

3.2 Experimental design and treatment

The experimental design was a completely randomized block design (CRBD) with three
treatments namely mulching with saw dust, incorporation of saw dust and the control where
no amendment was applied. Each treatment was replicated three times on experimental plots
of units measuring 6 by 2 meters. Before planting and introduction of saw dust treatments, all
plots were tilled equally and the control plots were maintained as bare ground. (Jeffery and
Michael, 1999)

In the first season (September 2007), fresh fine saw dust from the near by saw mill (same
source with farmers) was applied to the plots and the next day an early maturing maize
variety longe 6H obtained from Ntenjeru sub county department of agriculture was planted at
a spacing of 60 x 30cm (one seed per hill). Weeding was done manually by uprooting the
weeds as they appeared.

ediemukiibi ‘08 10
The soil was sampled in the field covering all plots (0-15cm deep) for the pre-planting soil
properties prior to application of the treatments. The same plots were maintained throughout
the trial duration. For the second season, planting of maize was done without applying more
saw dust to the field as recommended by Starbuck (1994).

Twenty plants out of 44 from each of the 9 experimental plots were selected for data
collection in the trial. For the second season, recordings of the plant growth parameters were
taken twice that is at 2 weeks and 10 weeks (during anthesis) after germination and
application of treatment.

3.3 Data analysis

3.3.1 Soil analysis
Surface (0-15cm) composite soil samples collected on experimental plot basis by a soil auger
in December 2007 (1st growing season) and June 2008 (2nd growing season) were air dried in
the lower soils laboratory of Makerere University soil science department, sieved under
impact test series for the determination of mean weight diameter and then crashed and sieved
through a 2mm sieve for chemical property analysis.

The soil pH was determined using the glass colomed electrode pH meter; Nitrogen was
determined by the Kjedahl approach, available Phosphorus by Bray 1 Extraction Method,
Organic Matter by Walkey-black oxidation method and the aggregate size distribution by dry
sieving using the mean weight diameter approach. The exchangeable potassium and Calcium
were extracted using the ammonium acetate and then determined on a flame photometer in
the soil science East laboratory.

3.3.2 Plant analysis

Plant height, leaf width and number of leaves, data were collected two times in a growing
season that is; two weeks after germination and at the stage of anthesis. The plant height and
leaf width were measured using a tape measure as stated by (Mulanax, 2005) while the leaf

ediemukiibi ‘08 11
number was obtained by manual counting of leaves on each plants starting with the first to
the last leaf.

3.3.3 Statistical analysis

Maize growth data, and soil physical and chemical analysis data obtained from the laboratory
tests collected at a treatment and replicate basis was entered into Microsoft excel spread
sheet and were then subjected to analysis of variance and their means compared using the
least significance difference (LSD) at 5% level of probability under Genstat (Genwin 32)
window based computer package for experimental research.

ediemukiibi ‘08 12
 CHAPTER FOUR
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS
The pre planting soil tests are presented in table 1 above. The values of soil PH, % organic
matter, Ca, Phosphorus, nitrogen and potassium were all adequate for plant growth
(Kparmwang et al, 2004) because they were above the critical values indicated in table 1 as
presented by Okalebo et al 1993). This suggests that the favourable parameters could favour
maize growth in all the experimental units.

Table 1: Soil properties before planting and application of saw dust in the first season
Soil parameters tested
pH % OM %N P K Ca MWD
(mg/kg) Me/100g

Mean
5.8 3.22 0.205 65.687 0.695 6.619 2.126
values

Critical
5.5 3.0 0.2 15.00 0.4 0.8 2.0
values

4.1 Effects of saw dust Application on soil properties

Table 2 shows the soil chemical and physical properties influenced by saw dust application
after the first growing season. The data for soil parameters in the second growing season of
maize crop were obtained at the stage of Anthesis in June 2008 and the results are also
summarized in Table 3. In the second season, saw dust application greatly influenced the
levels of soil parameters.

4.1.1 Soil pH
In the first growing season, the plots in which saw dust was incorporated, the soil pH was
significantly higher (P<0.05) than the control and mulched plot (Table 2). This is in
agreement with findings by Owolabi et al (2003), where saw dust enhanced soil pH and
nutrient status of the soils in South West Nigeria. Generally saw dust application led to a
significant increase in soil Ph after the growing season. This increase in soil alkalinity with
the application of saw dust indicate an increasing supply of basic cations especially Calcium

ediemukiibi ‘08 13
and potassium (Awodun 2007). Also the elevated pH in plots treated with saw dust could
have resulted from the immobilization of ammonium from the decomposing organic matter
(Obi and Ekiperigin 2001). This is usually a short term pH effect because the pH will
decrease as ammonia is oxidized to nitrate by nitrifying bacteria in the soil in subsequent
growing seasons. (Awodun et al 2007)

Un like in the first season, saw dust application as mulch in the second season resulted into a
significant (p<0.05) reduction in the soil pH to 5.4 below the critical levels given in table 1.
The results presented in Table 3, show that the soil pH in mulched plots was significantly
lower than where saw dust was incorporated into the soil and in the control plots which did
not receive any saw dust (p<0.05). The soil pH was highest under the plots where saw dust
was incorporated into the soil, followed by the control plots and lowest in the mulched plots.
The difference among all treatments was highly significant (LSD=0.2). The highest pH level
in the incorporated plots in the second season could have resulted from the increased supply
of basic cations and exchangeable bases like potassium and calcium more than in the first
season. This finding implies that saw dust incorporated into the soil in humid tropics where
the rate of decomposition is high has a liming effect as explained by Owolabi et al (2003).
Comparing with results of the first season (Table 2), this result indicates that with time saw
dust application as a mulch to the soil induced soil acidity. This similar finding was also
reported by Lles and Dosman (1999) where mulching with wood wastes like saw dust and
bark led to a significant reduction in the soil pH. This saw dust mulch induced pH reduction
below the critical level could have resulted from addition or retention of high levels of
organic matter with organic acids produced from the decomposition of wood derived
materials which accumulates or leach into the soil as found out by Himelick and Watson
(1990)

4.1.2 Soil Organic matter

The results for the first season (Table 2) also show that the application of saw dust resulted
into significant increase in soil organic matter (Awodun 2007, Starbuck 1994). The mulched
plots had significantly higher soil organic matter content than the rest of the treatments.

ediemukiibi ‘08 14
While the control plots and incorporated plots averaged from 3.24% and 3.97% respectively,
the mulched plots averaged 4.035% which is significantly (p<0.005) higher than the rest of
the plots (LSD= 0.4). This was also true with the second season findings (Table 3) where the
soil organic matter content in mulched plots averaged 3.62% significantly higher than the
control plots (2.13%) but not significantly different (p>0.05) from the incorporated plots
(3.41%). The findings are consistent with Kirsch (1959). However, comparing with the
results in the first season, the results indicate that the level of soil organic matter in all
treatments dropped in the second season. This could be as a result of the increase
mineralization and decomposition of the organic matter common in tropical warm
environments which results into a decline in soil organic matter levels over time without
subsequent additions (Micheni et al 2004). In both seasons, the soil organic matter level was
highest in mulched plots as compared to other treatments. This could be due to the reduced
rates of organic matter mineralization by micro organisms when applied on surface (White et
al 1934) as compared to increased mineralization rates that occur when residues are
incorporated into the soil (Sanders 1953). The overall results indicate that the application of
saw dust as a soil amendment significantly improved the level of organic matter in the soil
which is an incentive to crop production.

4.1.3 Soil Nitrogen

In the first growing season, soil total nitrogen was significantly higher in control plots (LSD=
0.09) (Starbuck, 1994). The control plots recorded highest nitrogen levels (0.223%) followed
by incorporated plots (0.178) and the least nitrogen levels were recorded in plots mulched
with dust (0.176). These two plots had less than the minimum recommended level of 0.2%N
(Kparmwang et al, 2004). The difference in the level of available nitrogen between the
mulched and incorporated plots was not significant (P>0.05). This was also true of the
second season. The result Table 3 indicate that the application of saw dust either as mulch or
incorporated in the soil significantly (p<0.05) reduced the total nitrogen in the soil to levels
below the critical values as earlier reported by Starbuck (1994). In both seasons the control
plots had the highest nitrogen followed by the incorporated plots and nitrogen was least in
mulched plots. The low levels of nitrogen levels in plots where Saw Dust was applied could

ediemukiibi ‘08 15
be due to the immobilization of nitrogen by micro organisms acting on the carbonaceous saw
dust (Awodun et al 2007; Starbuck 1994; White et al 1934). Saw dust is known to have a
very high C / N ratio of 300 to 500 (Olayinka and Adebayo, 1984). Hence it is recommended
that to enhance release of nutrients from saw dust, the microbial action should be enhanced
by integrating the use of saw dust and urea or other nitrogenous fertilizer to reduce the C/N
ratio of the environment (Olayinka and Adebayo, 1989)

In relation to the above, the study findings on C/N ratio of the soil reveal that saw dust
application significantly statistically (p<0.05) influenced the C/N ratio of the soil in all of the
treatments (appendix 4). Saw dust application as mulch significantly (p<0.05) showed the
C/N ratio (19.22) followed by incorporation (12.68) and lastly the control plots with C/N
ratio as low as 4.92 (appendix 4). The high C/N ratio in the plots where saw dust was applied
is attributed to the high C/N ratio of fresh saw dust which ranges from 300 to 500 (Olayinka
and Adebayo, 1984).

4.1.4 Available Phosphorus

The results from first season analyses (Table 2) indicate that the phosphorus levels of all the
plots were very adequate (Kparmwang et al 2004). The available Phosphorus levels were
highest in the plots where so dust was incorporated into the soil, followed by the control
plots and least in the plots where saw dust was applied on the surface as mulch. Even if there
was a difference in phosphorus levels among the various treatment mentioned above, this
different was not significant in all plots (LSD=63.95) at p> 0.05.

Like wise, the second season results indicate that saw dust application did not have any
significant effect on the phosphorus level as earlier reported in the first season results. How
ever the results show that the application of saw dust to the soil decreased phosphorus levels
as reported by Kirsch (1959) where the incorporation of saw dust reduced the level of
sodium bicarbonate-extractable phosphorus in the soil. The individual treatments data shown
in Table 3 indicate that applied saw dust generally decreased soil phosphorus. An

ediemukiibi ‘08 16
explanation to this my primarily be because of the retarded microbial activity and an
accompanying decrease in carbon dioxide in the soil as saw dust is decomposing.

4.1.5 Soil Exchangeable bases (K and Ca)

The levels of K and Ca in all plots are generally adequate for satisfactory yields (Kparmwang
et al, 2004). The indicated values show no significant differences in the potassium levels and
the calcium levels in all the plots (p>0.05). On the side of K, is in line with Starbuck (1994)
and Olayinka and Adebayo, (1984) findings that, where saw dust was incorporated into soil,
it resulted into more potassium than other plots but the increase was not significant.
Contrally, the second season results in , indicate that the incorporation of saw dust into the
soil significantly (p>0.05) increased the calcium level in the soil as compared to the mulched
plots, but the difference between the controls and the incorporated plots (Table 3) was not
significant (LSD=1.17). The results also indicate that potassium levels in the second season
were significantly affected by saw dust application (LSD=0.356). Saw dust application on
surface as mulch resulted into significant reduction (p<0.05) in the level of potassium in the
soil making it the lowest recorded among all treatments. The highest potassium level
(1.413me/100g) was obtained by incorporating saw dust into the soil followed by the control
plots (0.923me/100g). Generally, there was an increase in the level of exchangeable bases in
the second season as compared to the first season. The findings partly explains the ability of
saw dust incorporated into the soil to act as a liming material as successfully tried out by Obi
and Ekiperigin, 2001)

4.1.6 Soil aggregation

The effect of saw dust in the aggregate mean weight diameter (MWD) was not significant
(LSD= 0.6). However, it should be noted that plots where saw dust was incorporated had the
highest MWD followed by the mulched plots and least in control plots in the first season
(table 2). In the second season the effect of saw dust application the soil aggregate size
distribution was also not significant (p>0.05) but better soil aggregate size distribution was
recorded in plots where aw dust was applied as the general case in first season. This clearly
depicts the advantages of using organic soil amendment as reviewed by Verma and Bhaghat,

ediemukiibi ‘08 17
1992; Zake et al, 1994 and Wasswa et al, 2003. These results show that saw dust helped
stabilize soil aggregates, apparently through its decomposition and therefore affecting other
soil parameters relevant for plant growth. The second season results how ever show a general
reduction in soil aggregation as indicated by lower mean weight diameter values than in the
first season.

Table 2: Soil response to application of saw dust in the first growing season

Treatment Soil Characteristics

pH O.M (%) MWD Ca N% P K
me/100g me/100g

Mulch 6.0 4.033 2.253 5.71 0.176 56.2 0.879

Incorporated 6.2 3.97 2.551 6.46 0.178 74.9 0.854

None 5.9 3.24 2.123 7.01 0.223 66.2 0.844

L.S.D(p=0.05) 0.2 0.4 0.6 (NS) 1.6 (NS) 0.09 63.9(NS) 0.2 (NS)
NS== Not Significant

Table 3: Soil response to application of saw dust in the second growing season
Treatment Soil Characteristics
pH O.M Aggregation Ca N (%) P K
(%) (MWD) (me/100g) (mg/kg) (me/100g)

Mulch 5.4 3.62 2.51 5.67 0.12 55.6 0.79

Incorporated 6.3 3.41 2.00 6.93 0.157 54.6 1.413

None 5.8 2.13 1.75 6.10 0.283 75.5 0.923

LSD (p=0.05) 0.2 1.36 0.86(NS) 1.17 0.103 54.67(NS) 0.356
NS == Not Significant

4.2 Maize Crop response to Saw Dust Application

The results on the effects of saw dust on maize growth during the first planting season of
September – December 2007 are not presented because of the adverse weather conditions

ediemukiibi ‘08 18
(Very heavy rain fall that buried the seedlings before readings were taken and the few which
had survived were later severely affected by the prolonged dry period from October to
December 2007 there by causing lack of statistical significance. So the results presented in
this section apply to the second growing season.

4.2.1 Effect of saw dust application on maize plant height (cm).

Maize plant heights (cm) taken at two different stages that is at 2 weeks after germination
(WAG), and 10 weeks (Anthesis) after germination are presented in Table 4 below. All
treatments influenced plant heights at Anthesis un-like at 2 weeks after germination.

Table 4: effect of saw dust application on maize plant height (cm)

Treatment Maize plant heights
2 WAG 10 WAG
Mulch 9.42 124.5
Incorporated 10.08 176.8
None 10.39 186.8
LSD (p=0.05) 2.9(NS) 19.76
NS== Not Significant

As indicated in the table above, the application of saw dust had no significant influence
(p>0.05) on the maize plant height at 2 weeks after germination. On the other hand, at
Anthesis, saw dust applied as mulch had significant (p<0.05) adverse effect on maize plant
height. As indicated by the means in the table above, maize plants in the Control plots
attained the highest heights followed by the plots where saw dust was incorporated into the
soil. The plant heights in both incorporated and control plots were not significantly different
but highly significant from that attained under the mulched plots (p<0.05). This could be
attributed acidity induced by the saw dust mulch below the critical levels compared to
favourable pH and other favourable parameters in the control and incorporated plots. These
results therefore imply that for better maize plant heights and improved soil conditions like
organic matter, aggregation calcium and potassium, the incorporation of saw dust into the

ediemukiibi ‘08 19
soil is necessary. This is in line with what Awodun at al (2007) found out in southern Guinea
Savanna zone of Nigeria.

4.2.2 Effect of saw dust application on maize leaf width (cm) and number of leaves
At two weeks after germination, applied saw dust had no significant influence (p>0.05) on
the leaf width and number. How ever the results recorded (figure 1) show that the highest
leaf width was attained in the control plots (1.7cm), followed by the plots where saw dust
was incorporated into the soil (1.567cm) and lowest in mulched plots (1.367cm).

12 2 weeks
LSD
10
Maize leaf width (cm)

10 weeks
8 LSD

0
mulch incorporated none

2 weeks 1.367 1.567 1.7

10 weeks 9.57 11.43 11.3

Figure 1: Response of Maize Leaf Width to Saw Dust Application

At Anthesis, saw dust application significantly influenced (p<0.05) the maize leaf width. The
incorporation of saw dust into the soil resulted into significantly wider leaves than in the
mulched plots but not on the control plots (figure 1). This increase in leaf width has a number
of beneficial effects on the yield of maize. It greatly affects the amount of solar radiation
absorbed by the plant to effectively carry out processes like photosynthesis.

Saw dust mulch also significantly (p<0.05) reduced the number of leaves (appendix 1). The
difference was significant through out all treatments (LSD=0.4) with the highest number
recorded in control plots followed by the incorporated plots and lowest in the mulched plots.
This could be attributed to the low levels of nitrogen saw dust treated plots as compared to

ediemukiibi ‘08 20
the control plots. The leaf number and plant height were also strongly related (R2 = 1) as
presented in figure 2.

4.3 Relationship between maize plant height (cm) and number of leaves, soil pH,
Organic matter and soil nitrogen.

Figures 2, 3, 5 and 5 represent the relationship between maize plant height and number of
leaves, maize plant height and soil pH, maize plant height and Organic matter, and maize
plant height and soil nitrogen respectively.

200 y = 29.162x - 66.709

2
180 R =1
Maize Height (cm)

160
140
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
2 4 6 8 10
Number of leaves

Figure 2: Relationship between Maize Plant Height (Cm) and the Number of Leaves

There was a strong relationship (R2=1) between maize plant height and the number of leaves
on the plant in each treatment recorded 10 weeks after germination. This was when maize
had attained a maximum canopy in terms of leaf area index, and above ground biomass. So it
is recommended that most of soil management practices for better maize yields like
application of organic matter, weeding, and fertilizer application, should be optimized up to
this stage, because any management intervention after the Anthesis stage will definitely
benefit the soil but may not increase plant growth characteristics like height and leaf number.

ediemukiibi ‘08 21
 200
180
160
Maize Height (cm) 140
120
100
y = 54.91x - 157.61
80 2
R =1
60
40
20
0
5.2 5.4 5.6 5.8 6 6.2 6.4
Soil pH

Figure 3: Maize Plant Height (Cm) – Soil pH Relationship

Other regression analyses conducted between maize plant height and soil pH, (figure 3) soil
organic matter (figure 4) and nitrogen (figure 5) also showed a positive relationship. The
results of the regression analysis between maize plant height and soil pH (figure 3) showed a
very strong relationship (R2=1), figure 4 and 5 also followed a similar trend to depict the
relationship between maize plant height and soil organic matter (R2=0.5188) and maize plant
height and nitrogen level (R2=0.6056) respectively. Since plant height directly relates with
the yield of grain cereals, (Olupot 2002), it implies that better build up of these parameters as
influenced by saw dust application is important for attainment of higher maize plant height
and hence better maize grain yield.

ediemukiibi ‘08 22
 200
180
Maize Height (cm) 160
140
120
100 y = -29.88x + 253.93
2
80 R = 0.5188
60
40
20
0
0 1 2 3 4
% Organic Matter

Figure 4: Maize Plant Height (Cm) – Organic Matter Relationship

200
180
160
Maize Height (cm)

140
120
100 y = -29.88x + 253.93
2
80 R = 0.5188
60
40
20
0
0 1 2 3 4
% Organic Matter

Figure 5: Maize Plant Height (Cm) – Soil Nitrogen (%)

On the other hand, the regression analysis did not show any relation ship between maize
plant height and soil potassium (R2 = 0.2982) and maize plant height and soil phosphorus
levels (R2 = 0.3482) as presented in appendix 2 and appendix 3 respectively.

ediemukiibi ‘08 23
 CHAPTER FIVE
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Conclusion
Enhancement of soil productivity through maintaining favourable soil properties using the
locally available materials is essential for sustained agricultural production in Sub Saharan
Africa. This is particularly important to small holder farmers who are resource constrained to
access high external in puts. This study indicated the potential of saw dust as a locally
available soil amendment to improve the level soil organic matter which is central to the
productivity of any agricultural soil in Uganda. Organic matter levels were significantly
higher in saw dust applied plots than in the control plots where saw dust was not applied. The
soil aggregation was favourably affected by saw dust application however the effect was not
significant. Saw dust application did not have any significant effect on the phosphorus level
through out the study.
Saw dust with time significantly increased the supply of exchangeable bases when
incorporated into the soil and this partly explains the high soil pH in this treatment. In all
growing seasons saw dust application either as mulch or incorporated into the soil reduced
the nitrogen levels in the soil. So a combination of nitrogen immobilization effect and
reduced soil pH in the mulched plots severely inhibited maize plant growth characteristics
like Height, leaf width and number of leaves.

Generally, the application of sawdust as mulch had more adverse effects on soil properties
and hence maize plant growth than when saw dust was incorporated into the soil.

5.2 Recommendations
Basing on the adverse effects of saw dust application to the soil and plant growth, the study
recommends that when ever saw dust is to be used by farmers, a sample of saw dust should
be sent to a soil testing laboratory to determine the C/N ratio and nutrient contents prior to its
application as a soil amendment.

ediemukiibi ‘08 24
The study also recommends that since saw dust application results into nitrogen deficiencies,
it should be used with supplemental nitrogen sources like animal manure and poultry manure
or composting with afore mentioned manures prior to the growing of the crops to over come
this nitrogen inhibition.

More studies are needed to establish better ways on how to improve the performance of saw
dust saw dust under different agro ecological zones of Uganda.

ediemukiibi ‘08 25
References
Agboola A. A. and R.B. Corey (1976). The relationship between soil pH, Organic Matter,
Available Phosphorus, Exchangeable Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium and nine
elements in the Maize tissue. Soil Science Journal. 115 (5) 367 – 375.
Ali. M. and R. Pressad. ( 1975). Soil Moisture studies in fallow Barley Rotations under
mulches. Anti-transipirants and type of seed bed. Journal of Indian society of soil
science. 23 (F2). 163 – 172
Angers DA and Caron J (1998). Plant induced changes in soil structure. Processes and feed
backs. Bio chemistry journal 42: 55 – 72.
Awodun, M. A., (2007). Effect of saw dust ash on soil chemical properties and cow pea
performance in south western Nigeria. International journal of soil science (IJSC)
2(1): 78 – 81.
Awodun, M. A., M. S. Otaru and S. O. Ojeyi. (2007). Effect of saw dust Ash plus Urea on
Maize performance and nutrient status. Asian Journal of Agricultural Research. 1(1):
27-30.
Bhattachoryya R.K. and Madhva Rao. V.N (1989). Relative efficiency of some soil covers
in robuster banana grown under different soil moisture regimes. Indian journal of
Horticulture, India 46(3) 333 – 338.
Bunting A.H (1992); Feeding the world in the future: In spending CRW (eds): farmers’
principles of food and agriculture (17th Edition PP 256-290) Oxford Blackwell
scientific publications.
Buyanovzky GA Aslam M and Wagner GH (1984). Carbon turnover in soil physical
fractions, Soil Science Society of America journal 58: 1167 – 1173
DAREP (1995); Farming in Tharaka: an informed diagnostic survey report of the semi-arid
areas of Tharaka/Nithi district. KARI/KEFRI/NRI, DAREP-Embu, Kenya.
De Ridder. N. and Van Keulen.H (1990); Some aspects of the role of organic matter in
sustainable intensified arable farming systems in the West African Semi-Arid
Tropics. Fert. Res. 26: 299-310.

ediemukiibi ‘08 26
Dragne H.E & N.T. Chou (1992); Global Desertification Dimensions and Costs. In
Degradation and Restoration of Aridlands ed. HE Drague, Lubbock, Tex. USA.
Texas Tech. University .
Dragne H.E (1990); Erosion and Soil Productivity in Africa, Journal of Soil and Water
Conservation 45(4): 432- 436.
Dragne H.E (1992); Erosion and Soil Productivity in Asia. Journal of Soil and Water
Conservation. 47(1) 8-13.
FAO, (1999). Population and the current world food situation. Document prepared for the
116th Council Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the, Rome,
Italy. 14 – 19 June 1999. http://www.fao.org/sd/wpdirect/wpan0036.htm

FAO, (2006). Food security statistics. Food and Agricultural Organization of the United
Nations (FAO), Rome, Italy.
http://www.fao.org/faostat/foodsecurity/Countries/EN/Uganda_e.pdf

Ignantieff V., and P. Emos (1963). Some management aspects of more important tropical
soils. Soil Science Journal. 95 (243 – 249)
Izak AMN (1997). Ecological economics of investing in natural resource capital in Africa.
In Buresh RJ Sanchez PA and Calhoun (ed). Replenishing soil fertility in Africa. Soil
Science Society for America special publication 51 SSSA and ASA Madison WI pp
237 – 251
Jacks GV, Brind WD and Smith R (1955). Mulching. Common wealth bureau. Soil
science technology. Comm. no. 49. Common wealth bureau. Farnham Royal, bucks,
UK.
Jeffery K Lles and Michael S Dosmann. (1999). Effect of organic and mineral mulches on
soil properties and growth of Fairview flame red maple trees.
Kabera J.B, Katende .C. and Goliber T.J (1989) Uganda: Population factors in National
Reconstruction and Development, Ministry of Planning and Economic Development,
Population Secretariat.
Karl M.M Savann and Johannes Kotschi (1997), sustaining growth. Soil fertility
management in tropical small holdings. C.T.A, GTZ Wayenington, The Netherlands.

ediemukiibi ‘08 27
Kihanda F.M. (1998). Improvement of Farm Yard Manure quality through composting with
High quality organic residues. Research proposal funded by the African science
Career Awards of the reckefeller Foundation (1998 – 1999) KARI, Nairobi, Kenya.
Kirsch R. K. (1959). Effects of saw dust on soil properties. Technical bulletin 49,
Agricultural experiment station, Oregon state college, Corvallis, USA.
Kparmwang, T., V.O. Chude and D. Abdullahi, (2004). The classification and genesis of
benchmark soils of Bauchi State. Nigerian Journal of Soil Science. 14: 30 – 39.
Lal .R. (1975). Role of Mulching techniques in tropical soil and water management.
Tchnical Bulletin, Ibadan, IITA, 38pp
Lal.R. (1995); Erosion-Crop Productivity Relationship for Suits of Africa. SSS of Amenial
Journal 59(3): 661-667.
Lles.K Jeffery and Micheal.S. Dosman (1999); Effect of organic and mineral mulches on
soil properties and growth of fair view flame red marple trees. Journal of
Arboriculture 25(3) B. 163-166.
Lufafa, A., Tenywa, M.M., Isabirye, M., Majaliwa, M.J.G. and Woomer, P.L. (2003).
Prediction of soil erosion in Lake Victoria basin microcatchment using a GIS-based
Universal Soil Loss Model. Agricultural Systems 76: 883-894
Mc Donald. A. William (1953). Pot culture studies with improved compost mixtures of
sawdust and manure, steam treated composts and miscellaneous mixtures. New
Hampshire Agricultural experiment station, Durham, NH USA
Micheni .A.N (1996); The role of legumes in soil fertility maintenance in arid and semi-arid
areas (reference to Tharaka, Kenya): Msc Thesis, University of Reading.
Micheni A.N, Kihanda F. and Irungu.J. (2004), Soil organic matter (SOM). The basis for
improved crop production in Arid and semi-arid climates of Eastern Kenya. In A.
Bationo 2004 mangering nutrient cycles to sustain soil fertility in Sub-Saharan
Africa. TSBF Institute of CIAT PP. 239-248.
Mulanax Matt (2005) Measuring Duckweed Growth." The Charms of Duckweed.
http://www.mobot.org/jwcross/duckweed/duckweed-measuring-growth.htm, Science
Buddies Advisor, email correspondence February 4, 2005.

ediemukiibi ‘08 28
Obi A.O and J. Ekiperigin (2001). Effects of wastes and soil pH, growth and yield of crops.
African soils 32:3-15.
Okalebo J.R., Gathua, K.W. and Woomer, P.L. (1993) Laboratory Methods of Soil and
Plant Analysis: A working manual. TSBF-UNESCO, Nairobi, EPZ Publishers,
Nairobi, Kenya, 88p
Olayinka A. and AA Adebayo (1989). Effects of ore incubated saw dust based cowdung on
growth and nutrient uptake of Zea Mays L. and on soil chemical properties. Biol.
Fert. Soils, 7: 176 – 179.
Olayinka. A. and A. Adebayo (1984). The effect of methods of application of sawdust on
plant growth, plant nutrient uptake and soil chemical properties. Plant and Soil
journal, 1(86) 47-56
Oldeman L.R (1998); Soil Degradation: A Threat to Food Security? Report 98/01
Wagengen, the Netherlands. International Soil Reference and Information Center.
Oldeman L.R, R.T.A Hakkeling and W.G Sombrock, (1991); World Map of the Status of
Human, Induced Soil Degradation: An explanatory note Wage Nungen, the
Netherlands and Nairobi-Kenya: International Soil Reference and Information Center
and U.N.E.P.
Owolabi O. A. Adeleye; B.T. Oladejo and S.O Ojemyi (2003); Effect of wood ash on soil
fertility and crop yield in South West Nigeria. Nigerian Journal of soil science B: 55-
60
Pain I. and J. Pain (1977). Another Kind of Gaeden. 5th Edition. Villecroze, france. I and J
Pain. p58
Paul EA (1984). Dynamics of soil organic matter. Plant-soil. Pp 76:275-285
Pereira H. C. (1953). Effects of fertiklizers and manures on Kenya coffe. In Keen and
Duthie (1953)eds. 43-44
Ramaswami. P. P. (1979). Economic recycling of crop residues for soil fertility
management. Madras Agriculture Journal. 66 (F1) 737 – 743.
Rubaihayo P.R. (1990); Banana based cropping systems research. A report on rapid rural
appraisal survey of banana production in Uganda.

ediemukiibi ‘08 29
Salou O.A., Opara Nadi. O.A., and Swennen R. (1992). Effects of Mulching on Soil
Properties, growth and yield of Plantain on a tropical Ultisol in southern Nigeria. Soil
and tillage research 23 (1) 73 – 93
Sanchez P. A., (1976). Properties and management of soils in the tropics. New York, John
Wiley and sons. 618 pp
Sanchez. P.A, K.D. Shepherd, Ms. Soule, F.M Place, A.U Mokwenye, R.J Buresh, F.R
Rwesiga, N.Izac C.G Ndiritu and P.L Woomer, (1997). dulfertility repleshment in
Africa. An Investment in Natural Resource Capital. In replenishing Soil fertility in
Africa ed. R.J Buresh and P.A. Sanchez. SSSA Special publication. Madison
Wiscoasin, U.S.A, SSSA & American Society of Agronomy.
Sanders F.R., (1953). A review of the fertilizer and Mulch Experiments on coffea Arabica in
Tanganyika. In Keen and Duthie (eds) 1953: 44 – 45.
Sara J. Scherr, (1999). Soil Degradation: A threat to developing countries food security by
2020? International food policy.
Scholes MC, Swift MJ, Heal OW, Sanchez PA, Ingram JSI and Dalali R (1994). Soil
fertility research in response to the demand for sustainability. In Woomer PL and
Swift MJ (eds). The biological management of tropical soil fertility. Wiley – sayce
publication London, UK.
Semena A.R. (1994); Enhancing Farmers efforts to combat soil degradation. A challenge to
soil science technology. SSS EA, 14th Conference proceedings 21-25th Nov. 1994:
322 – 329.
Simon Bolwig, (2002). Land use change and soil degradation in the Southwestern highlands
of Uganda. A Contribution to the Strategic Criteria for Rural Investments in
Productivity (SCRIP) Program of the USAID Uganda Mission The International
Food Policy Research Institute 2033 K Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20006
Starbuck Chris (1994). Using saw dust as a soil amendment. In Starbuck C (ed). Applying
research in forestry. Report no. 6 forestry division, university of Missouri press.
Swift M.J (1994). Organic matter management as a component of nutrient management. SSS
EA, 14th Conference proceedings 21-25th Nov. 1994: 41 – 49.

ediemukiibi ‘08 30
Thomas K.M., (1975). Germination and the growth of coconut seedlings in tanzania as
affected by different Mulching Materials in the nursery. East African Agriculture and
Forestry Journal. 40 (4) : 422 – 427
Unger WP (2001) Paper pellets as a mulch for dry land grain sorghum production.
Agronomy journal 93:349 - 357.
Verma. TS and Sharma P.K. (2000). Effects of organic residue management on
productivity of rice-wheat cropping system pg. 163-171 in long term soil fertility
experiments in rice-wheat cropping systems (Abrol IP, Brouson K.F, Duxbury, J.M
and Cupta R.K eds). Rice wheat consortium paper 6, New Dhelhi, India.
Wasswa BN, Mugendi DN, Vanlauwe. B, Nandwa. S and Kung’u. J (2003) Organic crop
residue effects on soil physical and chemical properties in Kenya. Proceedings of the
21st SSSEA conference 2003 pp180 – 189
White Jr. AW, Giddens JE, and Morris HD (1934). Effects of methods of application of
saw dust on plant growth. Missouri department of crop production and nutrition.
Young A., (1976). Tropical soils and soil survey. Camridge University Press. 467 pp.
Cambridge, United Kingdom.
Zake J.Y.K (1993), Maintenance of soil productivity in Uganda, Makerere University
Zake JYK., C. Nkwiine, S. Ssesanga, J. Tumuhairwe, M. Okwajol and D.Bwaniki
(1994). The effect of different mulching materials on soil properties and on banana
productivity in Uganda. SSS EA, 14th Conference proceedings 21-25th Nov. 1994 PP
152-155.

ediemukiibi ‘08 31
Appendices
Table 5: effect of saw dust on the number of leaves
Treatment Average Number of leaves on the maize plant
2 WAG 10 WAG
Mulch 3.67 6.7
Incorporated 3.67 8.0
None 4.0 8.9
LSD (p=0.05) 0.76(NS) 0.4
NS == Not Significant

Appendix 2: Maize plant height (cm) – soil Potassium relationship

200
180
160
Maize Height (cm)

140
120
100
80 y = 55.686x + 104.67
2
60 R = 0.2982
40
20
0
0 0.5 1 1.5
Soil Potassium (me/100g)

ediemukiibi ‘08 32
Table 6: Maize plant height (cm) – soil Phosphorus relationship

200
180
160
Maize Height (cm)

140
120
100 y = 1.6748x + 59.031
2
80 R = 0.3482
60
40
20
0
0 20 40 60 80
Phosphorus level (mg/kg)

Appendix 4: effect of saw dust application on C/N ratio of the soil

Treatment

Mulch Incorporated None

C/N ratio (means) 19.22 12.68 4.92

LSD (p<0.05) 6.17

ediemukiibi ‘08 33