Use of Variable Rate Application in Soil Fertility Management by Small Farmers: Status, Issues, and Prospects

Small-scale agriculture is the main source of world food production, accounting for up to 70% of food (Fairtrade Foundation 2013). However, most smallholders are confronted with the intertwined issues of poverty and malnutrition. As these issues demand immediate attention, agricultural innovations must address broad income generation and food security needs (Lee 2005). One solution to both issues lies in improved crop yield, which is itself the result of better soil fertility management in precision agriculture (PA).