Soil tests urged in Chimanimani

Farmers in Chimanimani have been urged to have their soils tested for acidity and alkalinity ahead of 2019-20 agricultural season.

The call comes after Cyclone Idai- induced floods which altered the soil profile.

Speaking at a field day in in Biriri on Tuesday, Agriseeds director of sales and marketing manager Mr Ivan Craig said commercial and communal farmers could only improve their yields next season if they take their soils for testing since most of the nutrients were washed away by Cyclone Idai.

“Examination on the nutritional status of soils and its variability after heavy floods is one of the important environmental aspects to farmers.

“Farmers have to take their agricultural soil samples for laboratory analysis,” he said.

“Usually, cyclones influence soil quality in two ways; either positive or negative. They may increase the fertility of soil by adding layers of silt or it might reduce the fertility of soil in certain areas through sand casting, so farmers need to know the status of their soils before they start preparations,“ Mr Craig said.

“In Chimanimani District, land levels were altered, so surveys will be needed to established levels and direct soil management is a critical aspect as far as improving agricultural productivity and recovery in this area,” he said.

“Successful of crops are an important part of the recovery process after a cyclone and early salinity surveys will identify areas unsuitable for farming as crops need to be matched to the soil salinity levels.