Evaluating the impact of chemical fertilizer use on paddy cultivation practices and farmer perceptions in Sri Lanka

Abstract

This study explores the practices, perceptions, and socio-economic influences surrounding the use of chemical fertilizers among Sri Lankan paddy farmers. Recognizing the widespread dependence on chemical inputs and growing concerns over sustainability, the research aims to evaluate how farmers manage fertilizer use and soil health, and what drives their decision making. A mixed methods approach was adopted, combining quantitative surveys with 93 farmers from Puttalum district and 15 in depth qualitative interviews to uncover both behavioral patterns and contextual narratives. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, crosstabulations, and thematic coding to triangulate numerical findings with personal experiences. Results reveal that while chemical fertilizers especially urea are universally used, application methods remain inefficient, and overuse is common due to peer influence, risk aversion, and institutional gaps. Composting and other soil friendly practices are known but underutilized, largely due to labor constraints and yield uncertainty. The study concludes that fertilizer behavior is not purely agronomic but deeply social, shaped by tradition, resource limitations, and trust in informal networks. Policy recommendations include peer led training, community composting, and restructured subsidies to support integrated soil health management.