malvernmugadzikwa
Theseus Shambare
KUTSAGA’s Tobacco Research Board has issued an urgent warning to tobacco farmers experiencing premature flowering in their crops.
In a statement, the institute has advised farmers to take immediate action to protect their yields by executing topping timeously.
Topping is generally a process of removing the budding part of the tobacco plant which will, if not removed, flower and produce seeds, impacting negatively on the yields.
It must begin as soon as the uppermost reapable leaf is of such a size that it will not be damaged by the topping operation.
“If your tobacco plants are flowering prematurely, it’s crucial to intervene,” read the statement by Kutsaga.
“Premature flowering can significantly reduce leaf quality and quantity.”
To mitigate the impact of premature flowering, the institute recommends removing the growing tip of the plant to redirect energy from flower production to leaf growth.
“Kutsaga encourages farmers to monitor their fields closely and take action as soon as signs of premature flowering are observed,” read the statement.
Online Reporter