This paper presents the results of a participatory learning and action research (PLAR) model analysis of factors determining integrated soil fertility management among subsistence smallholders in central highlands of Kenya. The data was collected during three days PLAR model guided focus group discussions in Mukanduini village of Central division of Kirinyaga district in Kenya. The objectives of the study were: (i) to guide farmers through participatory identification and ranking of key socio-economic and bio-physical factors that influence integrated soil fertility management (ISFM), and (ii) to guide farmers through participatory identification and ranking of probable solutions to identified problems.

The paper presents the findings of a study conducted to determine farmers’ perceptions of some of soil fertility management-specific attributes and influence on adoption decisions. The specific objectives were: (i) to determine the relationship between perceptions and choice of integrated soil fertility management (ISFM), and (ii) to evaluate the perceptions among farmers for specific attributes inherent in some of ISFM strategies