adminhave been very patchy with some areas. Northern parts of the country received heavy rainfall while other parts and most of the southern provinces have not received rains for a long time. According to the report, maize that have reached the tasselling stage is at a critical condition.
Most farmers who had not applied top dressing fertilisers are failing to do so due to the heavy rains in some areas and very dry conditions in other areas.
The cotton crop is mostly at early flowering stage.
There are, however, fears that contractors delay in supplying pesticides will lead to losses due to attacks by pests.
On the other hand, tobacco farmers are concentrating on reaping, curing, grading and marketing. ZFU could not comment on the situation concerning marketing of the crop.
“It may be too early to get a correct picture of the situation at the tobacco market compared with last season because seasonal average prices are varying by the day,” the report stated.
The condition of livestock (cattle, goats, and sheep) has continued to improve in most provinces.
Reports of cattle disease outbreaks (especially tick borne) have been received.
The report says the lumpy skin disease remains a cause for concern to farmers particularly in Mashonaland West, Midlands and Matabeleland South.
Farmers are advised to seek assistance from the Department of Veterinary Services or the nearest agricultural extension officer.
The 2013 rainfall season was delayed resulting in the hectarage planted to major food crops (maize, sorghum and millets) declining to 1 498 455 hectares this season from last year’s 1 930 082 hectares.
Online Reporter