Assessment of soil fertility status in cotton-based cropping systems in Cote d’Ivoire

Cotton is the main cash crop in northern Côte d’Ivoire, where intensive cultivation along with low external inputs has led to a decline yields due soil degradation. The present study aims assess evolution of fertility during 2013 and 2021 periods cotton basin area d’Ivoire. More specifically, (i) identified limiting physico-chemical parameters fertility, (ii) analysed state For this purpose, total 64 samples were taken on same plots 0-20 cm horizon. Chemical analyses laboratory carried out following parameters: particle size distribution, pH water, nitrogen (N T ), Potassium (K + Calcium (Ca 2+ Magnesium (Mg Sodium (Na ) Cation exchange capacity (CEC). results showed that sandy-clay textured topsoils dominate whole both years. This leads retention exchangeable bases. Determination varies from slightly acidic neutral (6.5<pH<7). most chemical properties are (CEC) sum bases (SEB) department Korogho, Boundiali, Ferkessedougou Mankono CEC. However, period content cations , Mg K base saturation (BS) increased significantly all departments, more precisely Mankono. Although we observed slight increase soils compared 2013, values still below minimum required threshold. result implies have poor consequently level which compromises sustainability production system. application organic mineral amendments therefore essential nutrient these soils.