Sharon Chigeza Mutare Correspondent
LOW temperatures in some parts of Manicaland have caused a delay in preparations for the winter wheat planting season as some farmers are yet to harvest their maize.

Zimbabwe Farmers Union Manicaland provincial manager Mr Daniel Mungazi said the low temperatures were affecting the drying process of the maize crop in the affected parts, which in turn has delayed harvesting.

He said they were expecting better yields despite the delays in planting caused by low temperatures.

Mr Mungazi said inputs distribution was going on smoothly in the province.

“Inputs distribution from Government and private sector players is underway and this has given farmers in most districts a head start to the planting season,” he said.

He said some commercial farmers in Mutare and Mutasa districts have already started planting.

Mr Mungazi also said most wheat farmers were aware that planting should be complete by end of May.

“Water levels in major dams that supply water for irrigation are also encouraging, which is a boost for successful winter crop production.

“Some commercial farmers have already started planting in Mutasa and Mutare districts. Wheat planting has, however, started at a slow pace in some parts of Manicaland as farmers in cooler parts of the province are yet to clear their maize fields in preparation for the winter crop,” he said.

“Farmers from cooler parts of the province like Nyanga are yet to clear their maize crop because it tends to take longer to dry up and this has affected land preparation for winter wheat, but farmers are aware of the planting dates that will result in maximum yields.”

Government is expecting an increase in Manicaland’s winter wheat hectarage by up to 1 000 hectares this year.

Manicaland provincial agronomist, Mr Thomas Sakuhuni said land preparations were progressing well.

He said most farmers were registering and getting contracted under the Command Wheat programme that was launched recently by Government.

“This year’s winter wheat season is promising to be better amid expectations of an increase in planted land by a 1 000 hectares or more due to the full implementation of the Command programme,” he said.