Biochar data for maize on poor soils in and around Kumba, SWR, Cameroon - 75 participating groups
September 2009 - The crude data presented here give an indication of the effectiveness of biochar on biomass and maize grain production, as we observed it in the 75 plots located in and around the town of Kumba, South-West Region, Cameroon. The "general data" show average relative grain, relative biomass and relative belowground biomass yields for all test plots. They also give a comparative overview of the yields obtained at different plots. A project map allows the user to situate these plots.
The "data per farmer group" show the results obtained at each participating group's plot. Again, we show relative biomass, relative grain and relative belowground biomass yields. Added to this is the "residue-to-product ratio", a ratio which allows us to estimate how much biomass is available for a given quantity of maize produced.
Note that these results need to be complemented with soil data. These are currently being gathered and analysed.
A second run with "August maize" is currently under way on the same plots, which allows us to study the so-called residual effects of the biochar intervention. Together with the soil data this second series of results will yield a robust set of indicators showing the overall effectiveness of biochar. We expect the bulk of these data to be available by the end of 2009.
Note: all the data and illustrations presented here can be copied and distributed freely, but please do refer to Biochar Fund and Key Farmers Cameroon
General data on grain and biomass yield | Project map | Plot design |
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Data per farmer group | ||
ACHANCHO  | ACHI YOUNG FARMERS | ADEGE |
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