Faith Ndou
CHIREDZI–The Agricultural Technical and Extension Services (AGRITEX) has urged farmers in Chiredzi to closely monitor crop maturity and weather conditions as the harvesting season for small grains begins.
Chiredzi District AGRITEX Officer Tongai Bodi said early planted crops such as traditional grains, including pearl millet and sorghum, have now reached maturity stage.
Bodi encouraged farmers to check maturity indicators before harvesting in order to reduce post-harvest losses.
“Our early planted crops have reached maturity level especially traditional grains like pearl millet and sorghum. Farmers should check the maturity indices that allow harvesting and threshing of these grains,” he said.
He advised farmers to pay attention to moisture levels in the grain noting that small grains thresh easily when the moisture content is below 15 percent.
“If the moisture content is still high, we do not encourage farmers to harvest because it can result in a higher percentage of post-harvest losses,” Bodi said.
He also urged farmers to monitor weather patterns, including daily and 10-day forecasts to make informed decisions during the harvesting process.
“Small grains can easily go bad if they are exposed to moisture after harvesting,” he added.
Bodi encouraged farmers to work in groups during harvesting so that threshing can be done quickly after the crops are collected.
“The group approach can help reduce labour costs through traditional systems such as Zunde raMambo and Nhimbe, or through hiring casual labourers,” he said.
He further advised farmers to use clean surfaces such as tarpaulins during threshing to prevent contamination and reduce contact with moisture from the ground.
Bodi said proper harvesting and handling practices will help farmers preserve the quality of their produce and minimise post-harvest losses.
