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Precious Manomano-Herald ReporterMORE than 8 000 hectares have been put under irrigated tobacco, a 10 percent jump on the 7 300ha at the same stage last year, with early planting progressing as farmers seek to push up production.
Farmers started planting on September 1 for the irrigated crop while others are managing their seedbeds and nurseries waiting for the rains to transplant.
The Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) weekly report shows that from the 8 100ha planted, farmers in Mashonaland East have so far planted 2 880ha compared to 2 349ha planted during the same period last season.
Mashonaland Central has 2 464ha planted compared to 2 168ha, Mashonaland West 1 845ha and Manicaland has 999ha compared to 941ha.
At least 95 275 tobacco growers have so far registered for this season compared to 69 640 growers registered last season. Not all may end up planting but you have to be registered before you plant.
There are high hopes of a bumper harvest as weather experts have forecast good rains this year.
Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) public affairs officer Mrs Chelesani Tsarwe said the board was anticipating more growers this season. She urged tobacco farmers to adhere to best practices to improve productivity.
“High yields and quality are achievable provided all production processes are done properly and on time. Growers should also prepare proper curing facilities to preserve quality and avoid losses at curing,” she said.
Tobacco Farmers Union Trust president Mr Victor Mariranyika said: “By October 31, all contracted farmers should have received their inputs according to TIMB regulations.
“We are happy that the area under tobacco so far has increased surpassing last year’s hectarage. This means farmers are well prepared this season,” he said.
In Zimbabwe, tobacco is grown under partial irrigation by larger commercial farmers while small scale farmers rely almost entirely on rains.
Online Reporter