Page 130 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

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Figure 8.1: Green pigeon pea
As pulses, pigeon pea is harvested when the pods are dry and hard (refer to Figure
8.2). The peas can be stored and used later or sold in bulk. Majority of the pigeon
pea farmers tend to utilise peas for both purposes as a vegetable when pods are
harvested immature and still green and as pulses when pods are dried up. The dry
pigeon peas are sold to local traders for local market consumption or export to
other countries.

Figure 8.2: Pulse pigeon pea
Pigeon pea plays a big role in improving household food security and income. It
is a good source of plant protein. Because of their ability to be stored for a long
time, dry pigeon peas help families to have food all year round and even sell the
crop to earn money.

Apart from being a source of food and income, pigeon peas are good for improving
soil health. They fix nitrogen in the soil through its roots. This helps to improve
soil fertility for other crops grown together with or after pigeon peas. The plant
also reduces the need for nitrogenous chemical fertilisers, which saves money
and the environment. Moreover, pigeon pea leaves can be fed to animals such
as goats, sheep and cattle. The dry stems are used as firewood or for fencing
around farms. The flowers attract bees, which help with pollination and honey
production.

Student’s Book Form Three 121

17/09/2025 14:12
AGRICULTURE F3.indd 121 17/09/2025 14:12
AGRICULTURE F3.indd 121