Page 96 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

Very acidic soils may reduce plant growth and should be avoided or improved
through liming.
Land preparation must begin early. The first step is clearing the field to remove
weeds, bushes and/or crop remains from the previous season. This helps to reduce
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pests and diseases. Deep ploughing is done by using hand hoes, ox-ploughs or
tractor-mounted ploughs. Ploughing loosens the soil, improves water movement,
and allows roots to grow well. Large clods must be broken down by harrowing,
and stones removed to make a smooth seedbed. Harrowing is done to level the soil
and prepare a fine tilth. A fine seedbed facilitates even sowing, early germination
and good root development. If the soil is too dry, sowing should wait until there
is enough moisture. Well-prepared land encourage vigorous plant growth and
better yields.

In soils with low organic matter, compost or manure should be added before
planting. This helps to improve soil structure and provides nutrients for young
plants. Phosphate fertilisers can also be added to improve phosphorus levels. It
is better to conduct soil tests before applying fertilisers. This helps to know the
correct amount of fertiliser to use. However, the common pea, being a legume,
does not need much nitrogen Fertiliser. Furthermore, common pea seeds can be
inoculated with Rhizobium bacteria before planting. This helps the plant to fix
nitrogen from the atmosphere.

Activity 6.3

Under the guidance of your teacher, visit your school garden/ farm to perform the
following tasks:

1. Check soil texture by rubbing it between your fingers.

2. Observe how water drains by pouring water into a small hole.
3. Identify a suitable site for common pea growing.

4. Prepare by measuring the plot for sowing common peas.

5. Clear the land and prepare the seedbed using available tools.

6. Sow the common pea seeds in the prepared seedbed.
7. Record all observations and lessons learnt in your portfolio.

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