Soil Fertility Management, a Tool for Sustainable Disease and Weed Control in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review

Abstract

Agro-ecosystem health is built on habitat manipulation and fertility enhancement. Similarly, plant nutrient levels altered by fertilization practices can expose crop plants to pests. In addition, diseases, weeds and other pests are principal agricultural losses all over the world. This is particularly devastating particularly in the developing nations of Sub-Saharan Africa, especially Nigeria. Reduction in these losses will not only improve agricultural production but will enhance food security and economic well-being of society. Sole use of synthetic chemicals is economically not a viable option and does not encourage environmental sustainability while land expansion is equally elusive due to urbanization and different forms of development and not environmentally friendly. The most viable and practicable option is integration of different fertility management alternatives that could produce crops on a sustainable basis while ensuring the safety and sustainability of the environment. Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) has proved to be a promising approach to fertility management and sustainable environment. It could be adopted as it provides the needed nutrients for plants, reduce weeds and disease incidences while safeguarding the environment.