Modelling soil nutrient dynamics and
Maize (Zea mays L) Performance under
different organic based cropping
systems using APSIM at Kabete, Kenya
Maize (Zea mays L) production in Kenya is declining due to soil fertility depletion. The high costs of
inorganic inputs vis-à-vis their prolonged use posing soil degradation challenges further aggravates the
situation. Sustainable technologies to enhance soil fertility and aid in future predictions of impacts of
biophysical changes on maize production systems are needed. This study will be conducted to model soil
nutrient dynamics and maize performance under different organic based cropping systems using the
Agricultural Production System Simulator (APSIM) at Kabete field station of the University of Nairobi. The
experimental layout will be a randomized complete block design with a split plot arrangement. The main
plots will be the cropping systems; crop rotation (chickpea – maize), intercropping (chickpea/Maize) and
monocropping (sole maize) whereas the split plots will be organic inputs; farmyard manure (FYM) and
Minjingu rock phosphate (MRP). The soil will be sampled before planting and at crop harvest for
determination of P, N, and mineral N, bulk density, soil moisture and organic carbon. Plant will be
sampled at the seedling, flowering and maturity stages of crop growth and similarly analysed for N and P.
It is anticipated that the integration of legumes in the maize based cropping system with application of
organic inputs will improve the soil fertility and consequently maize performance.
Key words: APSIM; Zea mays L; organic cropping systems; simulatio