Page 136 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

Activity 8.4
Demonstrate different planting methods and study how they influence crop
growth by carrying out the following tasks in your school farm:

(a) Divide your prepared field into three equal plots and label them A, B, and C.
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Use different sowing methods for each plot as follows:

(i) In plot A, use row planting with the recommended spacing for the
variety;
(ii) In plot B, use the broadcasting method;

(iii) In plot C, intercrop pigeon pea with another crop of your choice.

(b) Record the amount of seed used and the time taken in each plot;

(c) Observe and compare the plant performance in all plots in terms of field
uniformity, weed control, ease of management, growth rate and general plant
health; then,
(d) Write a summary on the activity done, observations, and the lessons learnt
from this activity and put it in your portfolio.

Exercise 8.3

1. Your school received two different pigeon pea varieties from a local seed
supplier. What information would you look for before choosing one variety
to plant, and why?
2. You are preparing to intercrop pigeon pea with bulrush millet at your school
farm. How would you plan the crop spacing? What challenges might happen
if the spacing is not followed?

3. Mention the advantages and disadvantages of intercropping pigeon peas with
maize or sorghum.

Management of soil water and nutrients for pigeon pea
Pigeon peas are drought-tolerant but still require water at important growth stages.
Moisture is most needed during flowering and pod development. If the crop does
not get enough water at these stages, it may produce fewer pods, reducing the
crop yield. In most regions of Tanzania, seasonal rains are sufficient to support

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AGRICULTURE F3.indd 127