Roseline Mutare
Farmers are being encouraged to apply fertilizers judiciously and scout regularly for pests, especially the fall armyworm and African armyworm, to maximize yields.
In a telephone interview with The Midweek Watch, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Professor Obert Jiri, said timely fertilizer application and effective pest control are crucial in boosting crop yields.
“The key to successful farming lies in the appropriate application of fertilizers and regular scouting for pests, farmers must be vigilant and take proactive measures to prevent pest infestations, especially the fall armyworm and African armyworm, which can cause significant damage to crops,” said Professor Jiri.
The permanent secretary emphasized the importance of using the 4R approach to fertilizer application, which involves using the right source, right rate, right time, and right place, this approach ensures that crops receive the necessary nutrients for optimal growth, while minimizing the risk of environmental damage.
“Farmers must regularly inspect their crops for signs of pest infestations and take prompt action to control the pests. This can include the use of pesticides, crop rotation, and other integrated pest management techniques,” he added.
By taking these proactive measures, farmers can boost their crop yields, improve food security, and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
“We are thrilled to announce that our farmers have made tremendous progress in the 2024/25 farming season, achieving a remarkable 100% of our planting target with 3,874,000 hectares of crops planted,” added Professor Jiri.
“Notably, maize has taken the lead with 1.8 million hectares planted, followed by sorghum 418 000 and pearl millet 275 000, while other crops like sweet potatoes, sunflower, and soybeans continue to contribute to our diverse agricultural landscape,” he added.
