Maravi

(HERALD ZW) Farmers intensify planting

Farmers intensify planting
Friday, 14 December 2012 00:00
Rodney Pachiti Herald Reporter

PERI-URBAN farmers have taken advantage of the recent rains to intensify planting ahead of the 2012/2013 farming season. In a recent tour of areas surrounding Harare, The Herald established that peri-urban farmers had started planting following a wet spell experienced in those areas since last week.

Resettled farmers in Dema, Juru, Bhora, Chabwino and Domboshava lauded the Presidential Well Wishers Inputs Scheme for making available seed in time for the planting season.

Mr Israel Chingwanangwana of Juru said although the rains had delayed, there was no need to panic. He however, appealed for immediate help in accessing fertiliser.

“It has been raining everyday and if the rains continue we are expecting a bumper harvest. Our only worry is the shortage of fertiliser, which is beyond our affordability. A bag of top dressing is selling for US$40 and Compound D is fetching at least US$36,” said Mr Chingwanangwana.

Farmers in Domboshava are using cow dung as a substitute for Compound D.
“For the mean time we are using cow dung to plant maize and soya beans but we are hoping to get the promised fertiliser in time to allow for the cobs to mature and produce healthy grain,” said Mrs Susan Shumba.

Labels: AGRICULTURE, URBAN FARMING

posted by MrK @ 3:43 PM