Effects of farmyard manure and activated effective microorganisms on rain-fed upland rice in Mwanza, Tanzania

The study was conducted to analyse and compare nutrient contents of farmyard manure, farmyard manure treated with effective microorganisms and effective microorganism solutions, also, to determine the effect of farmyard manure and activated effective microorganisms on rice growth, development and yield. Farmyard manure and effective microorganism solutions were characterized for nutrient status in the laboratory. A 3 × 3 factorial experiment in randomized complete block design and replicated thrice involved farmyard manure and activated effective microorganisms. Farmyard manure at rates 0, 5 and 10 t ha−1 was applied 2 weeks before sowing by broadcasting and incorporated into the soil. Activated effective microorganism solution at 0, 20 and 40 l ha−1 was sprayed weekly at vegetative stage. Farmyard manure and effective microorganism solution contained both macro- and micronutrients at varying proportions. Application of farmyard manure increased rice yields from 1.35 to 3.31 t ha−1, 1.35 to 3.03 t ha−1 activated effective microorganism solution, and 1.35 to 3.33 t ha−1 in both farmyard manure and activated effective microorganisms when integrated. Adoption of organic soil amendments would improve soil fertility for sustainable crop production to small-scale farmers. © 2016, Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht.