Episode notes

This episode examines practical, commercially viable alternatives and complements to conventional fertiliser use in smallholder production systems. It focuses on soil testing as a prerequisite service, alongside pH correction, organic matter management, biological soil activation, and the use of locally available non-fertiliser materials to improve soil function, nutrient efficiency, and crop performance. The session also outlines how extension agents and agro-dealers can expand from input sales to a broader crop-health service model that includes soil improvement, advisory support, and preventive management of pests, weeds, and diseases.