Farmer’s Perception on the Use of Beneficial Microorganism Fertilizer for the Growth of Crops in the Northwest Region of Cameroon

Abstract:

Agricultural production mainly depends on the nature of soil, which is a measure of a complex set of biological, chemical and physical interactions driven by microorganisms. Crop production has been declining due to low soil fertility, disease and pests. The main objective of this research was to investigate farmer’s perception on the use of effective microorganism fertilizers for crop production in the North West region of Cameroon. The descriptive survey method was used. Farmers were randomly sampled at the main shop where one of such biofertilizers (Effective microorganism, EM) is obtained in the North West. The sample size was 100 farmers. Data were collected through the administration of questionnaires and visits to some fields. Results showed that 79% of the respondents used microorganism fertilizers. The significant factors influencing the adoption of microorganism fertilizers included age (54%), type of farmer (65%), cost and income from using organic fertilizers (66%), belonging to farmers based organization (54%) and the benefits of the microorganism where many respondents stated that microorganism fertilizer increased yield and also improve the fertility of the soil (40%). The most pressing constraint associated with the use of effective microorganisms fertilizer was offensive odor. There is the need for consumer sensitization on the potential benefits of growing and consuming organically grown crops. This could expand the demand for organically grown crops and the willingness of consumers to pay premium prices and hence increase organic production by farmers.