Farmer assessment of selected shrub species for improved fallow technology in Mukono district

Abstract

Four nitrogen fixing species were planted as short term fallows on poorly yielding soils in Nagojje and Najjembe sub counties of Mukono district. These were Crotalaria gralianiiana, Tepltrosia vogelli, Sesbania sesban and Cajanus cajan. Then a post fallow crop of beans or maize was planted together with a control. Crotalaria and Tephrosia flowered and attained maximum biomass within one season ( six months) while Sesbania and Cajanus flowered after two seasons (twelve months). Post fallow crop yields were high for all fallow species compared to the control. In beans Crotalaria was highest followed by Tephrosia and then Sesbania. In maize Crotalaria and Tephrosia performed equally well and better than Sesbania. Therefore Cotalaria and Tephrosia are promising as shrubs that can be adapted for short term improved fallow in Mukono district.