Page 77 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

limit root growth and increase the risk of diseases such as root rot and blight,
respectively. Common beans also need full sunlight to grow healthy, therefore,
shady areas should be avoided.
Common bean does well at a temperature ranging from 15 ℃ to 27 ℃ and an
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altitude of 1,000 to 2,000 metres above sea level. This altitude range offers
cooler temperatures that support flowering and pod formation. Temperatures
above 29.5 ℃ can reduce flowering and pod development. High temperatures
impair proper pod development and thus reduce yields. Beans also need a rainfall
ranging from 350 mm to 500 mm during the growing season. Too much rain
creates conditions that increase the risk of diseases and poor germination. Too
little rain can cause drought, which tends to affect flowering and pod formation.

Timely and proper land preparation is important for good bean growth. It begins
with the clearing of bushes and weeds from the field. The soil should then
be ploughed to loosen it. Loose soil allows roots to grow deeply and absorb
nutrients. The land must be levelled to help water spread evenly. Well-prepared
land supports plant growth, controls weeds, and retains moisture in the soil.

Activity 5.3
1. Visit your school farm and then:

(a) Assess the soil texture, drainage, and exposure to sunlight.

(b) Based on your assessment, select a suitable plot for bean cultivation.
(c) Prepare the plot for sowing beans.

2. Record your observations, performed activities, and lessons learnt in your
portfolio.

Exercise 5.2

1. Your school wants to start growing beans. Describe the features you will
consider when selecting a site to grow beans at your school farm to ensure
optimal production of the crop.

2. Imagine you have two farms: One is on a steep slope with clay soil, and the
other is on level ground with sandy loam. With reasons, argue which farm is
more suitable for common bean production.

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