Page 100 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

Activity 6.5
Visit the pea plot in the school/ home garden and carry out the following tasks:

1. Collect locally available materials such as bamboo sticks, tree branches,
poles, and ropes.
FOR ONLINE READING ONLY
2. In groups, design and build a support structure using either the staking or
trellising method.
3. Fix the supports carefully to avoid harming the plants. Ensure the structure is
strong and upright.

4. Observe how the plants climb and grow upright over the next two weeks.

5. Record the materials used and methods applied, and record what was observed
in your portfolio.

Management of water and nutrients for common pea

Good water and nutrient management are important for the healthy growth and
performance of common peas. Water is mostly needed during flowering and pod
formation stage. If water is limited at this stage, flowers may drop, and pods may
not form well. The soil should stay moist but not wet. Overwatering can cause
root rot. In small gardens or school plots, watering can be done using watering
cans or buckets. In larger fields, furrow irrigation or drip irrigation can be used to
supply water more efficiently. Drip irrigation save time and help to deliver water
directly to the plant roots. Light watering is best in the morning or late afternoon.
Mulching with dry grass or leaves helps to keep the soil moist, especially in dry
areas.

Nutrients are also needed for proper growth. Before planting, compost or well-
rotted farmyard manure should be mixed into the soil. Phosphatic fertilisers
help the roots grow well. Peas fix nitrogen from the atmosphere with the help of
Rhizobium bacteria. Inoculating seeds with Rhizobium before planting improves
nitrogen fixation. In soils with extremely low nitrogen and no testing available,
a small amount of nitrogenous fertilisers may be applied after the plants have
emerged. Wilting, yellow leaves, or poor plant growth may indicate water or
nutrient deficiencies. Small pods or very few flowers can also be a deficiency
indicator. These problems reduce yields if not corrected early. A simple soil test
before planting helps to determine if the nutrients are adequate. Regular checking

Student’s Book Form Three 91

17/09/2025 14:12
AGRICULTURE F3.indd 91 17/09/2025 14:12
AGRICULTURE F3.indd 91