Effect of Biochar and Inorganic Fertilizer on Soil Biochemical Properties in Njoro Sub-County, Nakuru County, Kenya

Declining soil fertility is a major constraint to potato farming, the second most important food crop in Kenya. The objective of study was determine effect different rates biochar and inorganic fertilizer on some properties; pH, phosphomonoesterases, nitrogen extractable phosphorus. conducted for two seasons (short long rains) at locations (Egerton University agricultural field farmer’s Mau Narok) using split-plot design randomized complete block (RCBD) arrangement with variety as main plot amendments subplot. Biochar Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) 0, 5, 10 t⋅ha−1 250, 500 kg⋅ha−1 respectively, were applied, resulting nine treatment combinations. Two varieties (Shangi Destiny) used study. A combination 5 DAP sole application resulted an increase 1.25, 2.54 units pH seasons, respectively. Similarly, 250 increased available phosphorus by 105 from 30.7 mg⋅kg−1 136 mg⋅kg−1. rate or significantly nitrate 102.11 116.14 units, Soils amended combined DAP, either kg gave highest alkaline enzymes (mM pNP × kg−1 h−1). However, acid phosphomonoesterases obtained under ha−1. Thus, chemical seems plausible option ameliorate declining nutrient base farmland Kenya, which could sustainably support growth.