Why do Smallholder Farmers Apply Inorganic Fertilizers below the Recommended Rates? Empirical Evidence from Potato Production in Eastern Ethiopia

Degefu Kebede and Mengistu K

Abstract

Evidences suggested that use levels of inorganic fertilizers in potato production in Ethiopia are below the recommended rates. This study is aimed at accessing factors contributing to this. The study utilized data collected from 171 randomly selected potato producing households. A two-limit Tobit model result revealed that variation in districts, access to irrigation, frequency of extension contact, and livestock holding significantly affected intensity of adoption of both DAP and Urea in potato production. In addition, access to credit and annual income significantly determined adoption intensity of DAP. It is therefore, essential to give due emphasis to these determinants in supporting smallholder farmers in order to enhance potato productivity.