Page 129 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

Chapter

Eight Pigeon pea production

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Introduction

In this chapter, you will learn the principles and practices underlying pigeon
pea production for optimum productivity. The competencies developed will
enable you to identify various opportunities in the value chain of pigeon pea
production and apply principles and practices in the production of pigeon peas
for commercial and home consumption.

Think

A drought-tolerant legume with a woody stem

Pigeon pea and its importance

Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) is an important crop grown in many parts of Tanzania.
It grows well in areas with adequate rainfall ranging from 600-1000mm. Being
a drought-tolerant crop, it can also grow in areas with low rainfall below its
optimum range. The crop also thrives well in relatively nutrient-deficient soil.
Pigeon peas can give substantial yield even under minimum care, making it an
appropriate food and cash crop for both small-scale and medium-scale farmers.
Farmers plant pigeon peas in open fields, home gardens, or mixed with other
crops such as maize, millet and sorghum.

Based on uses, pigeon pea is grown as a vegetable, pulse or both. As a vegetable,
it is harvested when the pods are still green and soft (refer to Figure 8.1). Often
cooked as fresh vegetable and eaten with cooked rice or stiff porridge. In Tanzania,
the crop is mostly grown in Lindi, Mtwara, Singida, Manyara, Tabora, Morogoro,
Tanga, Arusha and Dodoma regions.

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