Despite the good rains being received in most parts of the country, crops in the southern districts of Manicaland are now suffering from moisture stress due to low rainfall.

The southern parts of the province consist of areas such as Chipinge, southern Buhera, southern Mutare and Chimanimani.

Manicaland provincial crop and livestock officer, Mr Cephas Mlambo said these areas had not received as much rainfall as other parts of the province in the north and this had an effect on crop performance.

“Generally the crop in the northern districts is in good condition because we have been receiving good rains in those areas. We have not received excessive rainfall so we have not received any reports of leeching or water logging.

“However, the crops in southern districts that include the lowveld of Chipinge, Buhera and lowveld of Chimanimani, have not received as much rains so the crops are now moisture stressed,” he said.

The affected parts of the three districts are drought-prone areas that usually receive the lowest rainfall.

Meanwhile, the crop condition in most parts of the country is reported to be good.

Farmers who are still planting due to delayed rains have been urged to plant early maturing varieties.