Page 27 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

test results, organic manure, compost, or industrial fertilisers can be applied
to improve soil fertility. In waterlogged areas, proper drainage is important.
Whereas, contour farming can be used for sloped land. Land preparation should
be completed 2–3 weeks before the rainy season to allow for soil settling and
moisture accumulation for healthy maize growth and improved yields.
FOR ONLINE READING ONLY
Activity 2.3

1. Survey your school field and carry out the following:
(a) Determine its suitability for maize production.

(b) Measure and demarcate a plot for planting maize as per your plan.

2. Visit a nearby farm workshop and observe different ploughing and harrowing
tools/equipment.

3. Observe and asses the availability of tools and implements required for maize
production in your school.
4. Record all your work activities and lessons learnt in your portfolio.

Selection of maize seed variety and sowing
Maize is propagated by using seeds; therefore, the selection of high-quality seeds
from certified seed dealers is key for successful maize production. Generally,
there are two main categories of maize varieties, namely Open-pollinated and
Hybrid varieties.

Open-Pollinated Varieties (OPV)
These are seed varieties obtained from plants which have been cross-pollinated
with other plants of the same variety. The varieties are genetically stable and
thus a farmer can save and replant the seeds in the succeeding cropping seasons
without a significant yield drop or quality loss. They are more adaptable to adverse
environmental conditions such as low soil fertility and drought. Generally, OPV
varieties are more affordable since they perform under a low-input production
system. Some OPVs take a relatively long time (up to six months) to reach
maturity. Examples of the current OPV are presented in Table 2.2.

Hybrid varieties
These are developed by crossing two or more genetically distinct inbred parent
lines of two different varieties to obtain a maize variety with the desired trait.

18 Student’s Book Form Three

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