By Tshifhiwa Muifha
Farmers get practical knowledge on various aspects of maize production.
Farmers from ward 37 from Maangani village to Smoki village benefited from Maize Information Sharing Day focused on improving maize production.
The event was held at Khomele Garside irrigation scheme in partnership with the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD), Bayer/DeKalb, and Thohoyandou Farm City, with support from New Holland Agriculture and Labery Home of Agriculture.
The programme featured agricultural experts from Madzivhandila College of Agriculture, LDARD, Bayere, and Farm City, who shared practical knowledge with farmers on various aspects of maize production.
Dr Orbert Lufuno Nethononda from Madzivhandila College of Agriculture emphasised the importance of soil testing. He encouraged farmers to test their soils and keep their results for future reference.
He highlighted the benefits of soil testing as follows: Determining the nutrient status of the soil; Supporting healthy plant growth and improved yields; Promoting the efficient and economical use of fertilisers; and Reducing environmental pollution caused by excessive nutrients.
Agricultural Adviser Ms Nyengedzedzeni Ratshilivha provided farmers with practical guidance on fertiliser application from planting through to harvest. She also shared information on weed control and disease management, emphasising the importance of using appropriate weed-management practices for different maize.
Mr William Mothapo, representing Bayer/DaKalb introduced farmers to various maize seed varieties produced by DeKalb. He also provided information on the weed-control chemicals available to assist farmers in managing weeds and improving crop production.
The Assistant Director responsible for the Dzanani Service Centre under the Vhembe West Agricultural Ecological Zone welcomed the initiative and commended the organisers for bringing agricultural knowledge directly to farmers.
She encouraged farmers to treat agriculture as a business rather than as a means of subsistence. She further called on farmers to promote succession in agriculture by involving and introducing young people to farming, ensuring that agricultural knowledge is passed on to future generations.
The farmers lauded the initiative for bringing practical agricultural knowledge closer.
