Page 97 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

Exercise 6.2
1. A plot has sandy loam soil that drains well. Another has heavy clay that holds
water. Which plot is more suitable for common pea production? Give reasons.

2. A common pea field is prepared one day after heavy rain. What problems may
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occur, and how can they be avoided?

3. A farmer sowed common pea seeds on land that often gets flooded. The crop
performed poorly. What changes can be made to improve the site for the next
cropping season?

Variety selection and common pea sowing

Choosing the right variety of peas is important for healthy growth and high yields.
As you have learnt previously, common peas are grouped into garden peas and
field peas. This grouping helps farmers decide which variety to grow and how
to sow it. However, the selection of peas variety depends on their intended use,
local climate, and soil conditions.
In Tanzania, the currently recommended garden pea varieties include Ex-Karatu,
Ex-Zanzibar and Ex-Bulawayo. These varieties grow well in the highlands,
and are commonly used for fresh vegetable markets or home consumption.
Recommended field pea varieties, which are used for dry grain, include Ex-Ilonga
and Ex-Iringa. When selecting a variety for use, one should consult agricultural
extension workers or certified seed suppliers to get the latest and most suitable
varieties for their specific areas.

Sowing peas should be done when the soil has adequate moisture. In a small
garden or field, seeds are sown directly into the soil using hand tools. Sowing
methods and spacing also depend on the type of pea. Garden peas, which grow
tall and need support, are spaced 25 - 30 cm between rows and 5 - 10 cm between
plants. This gives enough space for air movement and staking. Field peas, which
grow low and bushy, are spaced at 20 - 25 cm between rows and about 5 cm
between plants. You may use double rows with wider walking paths in between.
Proper spacing of peas helps to reduce overcrowding, improves accessibility to
sunlight, and makes weeding easier. Seeds should be sown at a depth of 3 - 5 cm
in soft, moist soil. Seeds sown too deep may fail to emerge, while seeds sown
too shallow may dry out. A fine seedbed and correct sowing depth help the plants
come up evenly and grow well. For the best results, seed packages should always
be checked.

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