Managing water and nutrients in sandy soils for tree crop production in Central Coastal Vietnam

摘要

Increasing the agricultural productivity of arenosols in hot dry tropical climates is a significant challenge for farmers and applied R&D agencies in many countries. Central Vietnam has extensive areas of sandy soils which are used for mixed farming systems. This paper reviews soil and water constraints to tree crop production by farmers in central coastal Vietnam and outlines strategies that are being evaluated to reduce them. The application of improved irrigation and nutrient management practicesis impeded by inadequate farmer knowledge, labour shortages and very little capital for on farm investment. Field trials are in progress to evaluate potential changes to existing irrigation practices with the aim of improving water use efficiency, crop productivity and raising farm net income. The irrigation trials integrate nutrient management strategies. Specifically, rice husk biochar amendments applied to sandy soils are being investigated with the aim of improving soil nutrient retention. The trials also have institutional capacity building, research and extension objectives.