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Elton Manguwo
EXPERTS in agriculture have urged farmers to do proper land preparation to give crops a good stand in the face of climate change problems afflicting agriculture in recent times.
Agricultural and Rural Development Authority board chairman Mr Irvin Craig said with unpredictable weather patterns threatening crop production, meticulous land management techniques were essential for maximising output and ensuring food security.
“With the current climate variability and rising input costs, effective land preparation is more important than ever for sustainable agriculture,” said Mr Craig.
Proper land preparation improves soil structure and enhances microbial activities leading to healthier plants.
“When the soil is well-prepared, it promotes a diverse ecosystem of microorganisms and nutrients, which are crucial for plant growth and health,” Mr Craig observed.
This healthy soil environment fosters stronger, more resilient plants, leading to better growth and increased yields.
“As we look to promote conservation agriculture practices, investing time and effort into proper land preparation results in a more sustainable and productive agricultural system.
“Farmers should adopt innovative techniques such as conservation tillage, which minimise soil disturbance, enhance moisture retention and promote soil health,” Mr Craig further explained.
He urged farmers to consider the adoption of sustainable practices as vital steps towards improving productivity and ensuring long-term viability in their farming operations.
At a time like this when the cost of inputs is affecting farming operations, profitability the economic implications of effective land preparation are significant as farmers look for ways to maximise their returns.
“Investing time and resources in land preparation can lead to better yields and higher-quality produce, which translates to better prices in the market,” said Mr Craig.
To support farmers in this endeavour the Government through extension services has been hosting workshops at village business units (VBUs) to promote best practices for land preparation.
“These sessions cover everything from soil testing to effective tilling techniques and pest management strategies,” Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) acting chief director Mr Leonard Munamati commented.
As the planting season approaches, emphasis on land preparation serves as a reminder of its critical role in sustainable agriculture, as with the right practices in place, farmers are poised to overcome challenges and achieve a successful growing season.
The Government anticipates to increase cereal crop production by 340 percent to 3 274 200 tonnes this summer cropping season from 744 271 tonnes recorded during the 2023/2024 period.
“This significant increase in agricultural output is expected to bolster food security and address the growing demand for staple crops, contributing to drought mitigation and enhancing resilience,” remarked Mr Munamati.
Online Reporter