tawandamusarurwa
Online Reporter
TOBACCO farmers have been ordered to destroy tobacco stalks from the fields before May 15 or face fines.
In a statement on Wednesday, Tobacco Research Board (TRB) head of plant health services Dr Cleopas Chinheya said destroying tobacco stalks helps break the cycle of pests.
“Tobacco stalks are a potent reservoir for pathogens such as Potato Virus Y (PVY) and bushy top virus,” he said.
“Management of these viruses is subsequent to management of aphids and good agricultural practices.
“Stalks should be cleared from fields to break the life cycles of pests and pathogens as well as to protect subsequent crops from viral transmission to seedbeds or fields.”
Dr Chinheya said officials from TIMB and AGRITEX will be conducting routine inspections on growers’ fields to ensure adherence to regulations.
“In the event of late crop establishment as a result of delayed rains, some growers may not have been able to complete reaping before the stipulated date,” he said.
“It is therefore advisable that the inconvenienced grower seek extension periods from the department of quarantine services, Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development to avoid penalty.”
At least 432 farmers were fined last year for failing to destroy tobacco stalks before set deadlines.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter