West African countries are among the larger global millet producers but have low yields mainly due to the low quality of their marginal soils.The objectives of this work were to analyze the benefits and constraints of...West African countries are among the larger global millet producers but have low yields mainly due to the low quality of their marginal soils.The objectives of this work were to analyze the benefits and constraints of pearl millet production,to summarize the impact of different cropping systems and fertilization modes while proposing a holistic approach for sustainable production.The major constraints on millet yields are low rates or absence of fertilizers,unsuitable cropping systems,and the proliferation of pests and diseases.Intercropping with cowpea is a widely used cropping system in addition to crop rotation,monocropping and agroforestry systems.Microdosing is the best fertilization mode for West African smallholders.It is concluded that integrated systems(breeding new cultivars,intercropping and microdosing)in tied ridges or infiltration pit practices,sustained by the implementation of innovative approaches such as the‘Science and Technology Backyards’from China are a promising approach for increasing pearl millet production.In addition,policies such as land protection of the farmers and subsidies of inputs from the government and the effective involvement of farmers and extension officers are necessary in sustaining millet production in West Africa.展开更多
基金the China Scholarship Council,the CGCOC Group and China Agricultural University for providing study and research facilities and financial support.
文摘West African countries are among the larger global millet producers but have low yields mainly due to the low quality of their marginal soils.The objectives of this work were to analyze the benefits and constraints of pearl millet production,to summarize the impact of different cropping systems and fertilization modes while proposing a holistic approach for sustainable production.The major constraints on millet yields are low rates or absence of fertilizers,unsuitable cropping systems,and the proliferation of pests and diseases.Intercropping with cowpea is a widely used cropping system in addition to crop rotation,monocropping and agroforestry systems.Microdosing is the best fertilization mode for West African smallholders.It is concluded that integrated systems(breeding new cultivars,intercropping and microdosing)in tied ridges or infiltration pit practices,sustained by the implementation of innovative approaches such as the‘Science and Technology Backyards’from China are a promising approach for increasing pearl millet production.In addition,policies such as land protection of the farmers and subsidies of inputs from the government and the effective involvement of farmers and extension officers are necessary in sustaining millet production in West Africa.
