Page 131 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

Activity 8.1
Visit a nearby market where pigeon peas are sold, then carry out the following
tasks:

(a) Identify the types of pigeon peas sold (green vegetable or dry/pulse);
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(b) Ask the seller/farmer/trader about the common varieties found in their market,
their characteristic features, and how they are grown, used, and sold;
(c) Enquire on how pigeon pea helps their family and the community; then,

(d) Write a short report on what you have learnt from the study visit, in your
portfolio.

Exercise 8.1

1. A farmer in Singida is undecided on whether to grow maize or pigeon peas.
Justify why you would advise the farmer to opt for pigeon pea.

2. You are one of the attendees at a local agriculture fair. A visitor asks how
pigeon peas improve the soil’s status. How would you explain this?

3. A group of young people in your village want to start a small business in
pigeon pea production. What would be your advise for the group to be
successful in pursuing this idea?

Principles and practices of pigeon pea production

Successful pigeon pea production requires proper planning and good farm
management. Early preparation helps to achieve optimum yields and reduce
losses. A well-managed pigeon pea field can support food supply, increase income,
and improve soil fertility. Understanding the basic principles and following the
recommended agronomic practices is essential for effective production of the
crop.

The production process follows several important steps. These include planning,
site selection, land preparation, variety selection, and sowing. After sowing, the
crop requires proper management of water and nutrient, as well as weed, pest and
disease management. Later steps involve harvesting, postharvest handling, and
marketing. Each step must be carried out carefully to ensure healthy growth and
good returns.

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