Agroforestry trials in northern Cameroon.
Peltier R., Eyog-Matig O.
Author Affiliation: CTFT, 45 bis, avenue de la Belle-Gabrielle, 94736 Nogent-sur-Marne Cedex, France.
Bois et Forêts des Tropiques : 3-31
Abstract : In traditional farming systems in Cameroon trees were interspersed with crops. Attempts to modernize agriculture have resulted in removal of trees from fields to facilitate monocultures and mechanization (leading to reduced soil fertility and erosion problems), while tree plantations have generally been unsuccessful. Results are reported of agroforestry experiments established by the Cameroon Forest Research Centre, the purposes of which were to devise methods of establishing small profitable private woodlots, and to reintroduce trees into the mechanized cropping systems to improve fertility and reduce erosion. The farmers of Meskine developed a mango [Mangifera indica]/onion [Allium cepa] intercropping system. After 5-10 yr, the onion crops are gradually phased out. Based on this system, a method was developed for growing crops with Eucalyptus camaldulensis coppice used for fuelwood and building poles. The recommended cropping rotation is: 1st yr groundnut [Arachis hypogaea], 2nd yr cotton [Gossypium], 3rd yr sorghum [Sorghum], 4th yr grazing. The trees are cut in the 4th yr and the slash burnt, the cycle starting again the following year. Forest fallow trials, and trials of windbreaks around fields of dry season sorghum are still in progress. Vegetatively propagated living fences are common in N. Cameroon. A method is proposed using planted or sown Acacia nilotica, which is pruned regularly. Alley cropping, especially with Leucaena leucocephala, reduced crop yield. Intercropping of annual crops with A. albida had not produced conclusive results after 3 yr, while intercropping with L. leucocephala reduced crop yield. Plans for erosion control studies are outlined.