The planting season for major crops, especially maize, has officially closed, according to agricultural experts.
However, farmers still have the opportunity to grow sunflower and sugar beans.
Experts recommend that any new plantings should involve short-season crop varieties. For cereals, traditional grains and ultra-short-season maize are advised to optimize yields.
Leonard Munamati, Chief Director of Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS), highlighted key practices to boost this year’s crop output. He encouraged farmers with early-planted crops to apply top-dressing fertilizer in split doses to minimize nutrient loss from excessive rainfall and leaching.
Munamati also stressed the importance of pest control, urging vigilance against Fall armyworm and African armyworm. Farmers were advised to report any pest infestations to Agritex officers or the Migratory Pests Department promptly.
Additionally, Munamati emphasized weed management to reduce competition for moisture and nutrients. He recommended adopting moisture conservation techniques, such as mulching and water harvesting. For those practicing Pfumvudza, he advised mulching to maintain soil moisture.
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For irrigation schemes yet to plant, Munamati suggested focusing on short-season crop varieties that can be harvested by April, allowing time for wheat planting preparations.
Recent rains across many provinces have provided much-needed moisture, with Matabeleland provinces especially benefiting. “The rains in Matabeleland were a welcome relief,” Munamati remarked.
Professor Obert Jiri, Permanent Secretary for Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, confirmed that the maize planting window had closed. “Farmers should adhere to this guidance to avoid losses,” Jiri said.
Despite the closure of the maize planting period, Jiri encouraged farmers to focus on sunflower and sugar bean cultivation, as these crops can still thrive with the current moisture levels.
Dr. Shadreck Makombe, President of the Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers Union (ZCFU), echoed these sentiments, cautioning against late planting of maize due to the likelihood of insufficient rainfall in March. He urged farmers to seek advice from agricultural extension officers for proper planning.
“Farmers should cease maize planting now to avoid potential losses,” Dr. Makombe warned.
