FERTILIZER CONSUMPTION SURVEY AND USE OF SOIL ANALYSIS BY SMALL AND MEDIUM FARMERS IN ARARAS-SP AREA, BRAZIL

Abstract

The use of fertilizers and soil amendments is an important factor which leads to increase agricultural productivity. However, the inadequate use of these inputs has been causing economical, agronomic, and environmental impacts in the activities of small and medium farmers. This study aimed at the rising on the consumption of fertilizers based on soil analysis request and technical support, through interview with farmers in 50 agricultural production units in the region of Araras-SP, Brazil. The results reflected clearly the absence of technology and technical support regarding the appropriate management of soil chemical attributes. More than 50% of the farmers are based on the own experience for soil fertilization practice and have no appropriate plan of soil fertility. Soil acidity correction through liming is a common agronomic practice made by most of the farmers, but without dosage and frequency criteria. Few farmers know the effects of the application of agricultural gypsum as subsoil conditioning for root growth. About 80% of the interviewees request soil analysis frequently, but the great majority (72%) is not able to interpret the results. The analysis of plant material is a sub used tool by small and medium farmers to evaluate the need of adjustments in fertilizing program. More than 90% of the farmers understand that inadequate use of fertilizers would cause some environmental impact. Most (90%) admitted they need technical orientation to improve their agricultural activities. Lectures were supplied in the dependences of CCA/UFSCar and the Program of Soil Fertility Evaluation was also presented as an important extension activity capable to receive and analyze soil samples, as well as to supply reports and technical guidance. The results of the study mobilized GEPAGRI (Group of Studies and Research in Agriculture), a workgroup formed by students of the Agronomic Engineering course. They were organized to offer biweekly attendance to the farmers. Technical visits allow, on one hand, students to have the opportunity to apply the knowledge acquired and to live the difficulties found by farmers and, on the other hand, small and medium farmers access to information and the technical orientation, narrowing the contact between the university and the rural productive sector.