30 Aug 2020

The farmer’s knowledge about the type of soil as well as its acidity or alkalinity, otherwise referred to as soil pH is key to increasing production.

Speaking during the tour of Genesis farm, belonging to Messrs  Opelo Mothukuthedi and Suthani Mazhani at Sekukwe lands and Shashe Bridge respectively, Dr Amogelang Segwagwe, a lecturer at Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN) said farmers knowledge about the soil type and pH, coupled with the chemical composition, which affected the micro biology of the plant could not be over emphasised if maximized harvest is to be realised.

Officers who attended the week-long workshop on pest of economic importance in Francistown also advised farmers to avoid throwing debris near or around tunnels as doing so could cause weeds to grow, which would in turn attract pests that would have a negative effect on production.

While farming remained a challenge, experts have urged farmers never to tire from seeking assistance and advice from agricultural demonstrators.

Another aspect that experts highlighted was the need to look at the performance of the seed, particularly the yield. Ends