Diligent crop protection is crucial

Several methods are available to help farmers protect their crops from weeds, diseases and pests, says Dr Benard Ngwene, the agricultural advisory manager for AGCO Africa.

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Crop protection keeps a farmer busy for most of the season; it begins during land preparation and ends only when the harvest leaves the land. During this time, the farmer can be confronted with unexpected challenges, and must react immediately to prevent weeds, diseases or pests from reducing crop yield. Failure to do so may even lead to complete crop loss.

Technology can be of great help, but to ensure that a crop receives optimal protection, the farmer should walk the lands and visually check the plants.

The following is a brief overview of how to combat plant diseases, weeds and pests.

WEEDS

A weed is any plant growing where it is not wanted, and it is always best to start with a clean land. To achieve this, use a burndown herbicide application or tillage, or even physically remove the weeds.