By Nape Masemola
The Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD) in partnership with Agri-SA conducted a study group with maize growers in Sekhukhune South Central and Fetakgomo -Tubatse.
The purpose of the trial was to evaluate the performance and suitability of different maize pannar varieties at Magukubyane and surrounding areas considering soil, climate and good management practices. Magukubyane area forms part of Sekhukhune maize belt where most beneficiaries plant maize under dryland.
Grain-SA project coordinator Jerry Mthombothi highlighted the importance of such studies particularly for emerging farmers to utilize the right seed particularly on dryland and on a soil that is sandy as well as engaging in good farming practices and correct use of pesticide. Mthombothi said that farming technologies and methods may change but the application of basics often lead to higher yield results. With higher yields, farmers will be able to maximise their production to address the challenges of food security and still make profits.
On the 11 December 2024, 1 hectare was planted with maize varieties as mentioned: BT maize varieties and non-BT varieties, roundup ready and non-roundup ready varieties. They were planted starting from downwards to upwards. Pan 4p-928pw (ZLP8) 4 lines, Pan sp-990pw 4 lines, Pan 4m-112ca4 8 lines, Pan 5r582 l2p8 8 lines, Pan 4a-152 2cp8 8 lines and Pan 5285 zcp8 -8 lines All these were planted at M farm at Ms Sarah Mahladi.
The results of the performance of the six Pannar varieties planted could not be established mainly due to time constraint, but further assessment will be done. Preliminary results however indicated that the expected 6 tonnage per hectare results would not be met due to the heavy rainfall the area received as well as the African fall army worm outbreak.
Mthombothi however indicated that they remain positive based on the previous trials although they were using Bayer seed. Despite the setbacks encountered, Mthombothi remained optimistic about the seed particularly those that are roundup ready.
Maize Trials at Magukubyane
