An Analysis of the Short-term Effects of Glyphosate and Atrazine Herbicides on Soil pH in Maize Fields Cultivated by Small-Scale Farmers in Mbala

The use of herbicides has become increasingly common among small-scale farmers as a practical approach to weed control and improved crop yields. However, there are growing concerns about the potential side effects of these chemicals on soil health particularly soil pH, which plays a crucial role in nutrient availability and microbial activity.

Objectives

1.    To analyse the Short-Term Effects of Glyphosate and Atrazine Herbicides on Soil pH in Maize Fields Cultivated by Small-Scale Farmers in Mbala

2.    To determine Changes in Soil pH resulting from the application of Glyphosate and Atrazine herbicides

3.    To determine any correlations between the Glyphosate and Atrazine herbicides used and the magnitude of soil pH changes.

The experiment was conducted on virgin land in Munyezi village, Lunzua Agricultural Camp, located in Mbala District. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) was used to divide the field into three blocks, each with three treatments: glyphosate, atrazine, and a control with no herbicide. Baseline pH levels were established using soil samples collected at the depths (0 –15 cm) before any treatments were applied. Follow-up samples were taken at two-week intervals post-application, resulting in a total of 39 soil samples, including composites.

Laboratory analysis showed no statistically significant changes in soil pH following the application of either herbicide compared to the control. The Pearson correlation coefficient between treatments and pH was - 0.019 (p = 0.925), indicating a negligible and non-significant relationship. This supports the null hypothesis that herbicide application, under the study conditions, does not have a measurable linear effect on soil pH.

This study concludes that short-term application of glyphosate and atrazine does not significantly alter soil pH in virgin soils within smallholder systems. The results suggest that, under the tested conditions, these herbicides may not immediately compromise soil acidity levels.

While the findings provide some reassurance regarding the short-term impact of these herbicides on soil pH, they also underscore the importance of ongoing monitoring of soil health, particularly in low-input, smallholder farming systems where natural soil recovery may be slower.

This research contributes valuable baseline data to the body of knowledge on herbicide-soil interactions and encourages further long-term studies on the broader ecological effects of herbicide use. Promoting sustainable agricultural practices that balance productivity with environmental health remains essential for ensuring long-term soil fertility and food security.