FARMERS in Manicaland have been urged to start preparing for the 2018-2019 summer cropping season to achieve maximum yields.

In an interview with The Herald, Manicaland provincial agronomist Mr Thomas Sakuhuni said it was essential for farmers to start planning ahead for the summer cropping season.

“It is of no consequence to note that we are still at the height of winter, it is still necessary for farmers to plan ahead,” he said. “Most of the winter crop was affected by delays in the acquisition of inputs, which has already had a negative effect on yields.

“However, I urge farmers to start putting their houses in order now and prepare for the summer cropping season.”

Mr Sakuhuni advised farmers to start buying inputs to avoid last- minute rush.

Soil samples

“Last-minute preparations are not advisable as a lot of unforeseen challenges may be encountered along the way, resulting in delays in securing inputs or preparation of land, thereby causing farmers to miss prescribed planting dates,” he said.

He recommended soil analysis tests as a key component in the preparations for the summer cropping season, as this aids in the management of input costs.

“I urge those farmers who did not participate in winter cropping to use this time to take soil samples for testing, which is an important component in agriculture,” he said. “Soil analysis tests are important to farmers as they help manage input costs.