Page 70 - Agriculture Form Two

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

Soil water management
Maintaining consistent soil moisture after planting is vital to establish strong
roots and vines. Supplemental irrigation may be needed in areas with insufficient
rainfall to maintain soil moisture levels. A farmer can adopt irrigation techniques
such as furrow, sprinkler, or drip irrigation. As the crop matures, irrigation should
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be reduced to enhance tuber development and minimise disease risks. Mulching
using organic mulch (e.g., straw, grass clippings) is recommended to conserve
moisture and regulate temperature in the soil.

Activity 4.2

In your school field, perform the following tasks:
(a) Select a suitable area and prepare the land for planting sweet potato;

(b) Identify the best variety of sweet potato of your choice;
(c) Prepare the holes at the recommended spacing;
(d) Plant the selected vines; and then,
(e) Manage the plant and keep a record in your portfolio.

Exercise 4.1

1. What is the expected sweet potato yield in a one-hectare field?
2. Outline tools and implements used in land preparation for the sweet potato.
3. Describe the steps involved in preparing ridges, mounds, raised and flatbeds
for planting sweet potatoes.

Nutrient management

Nutrient management in sweet potato cultivation is essential for achieving
optimal growth, yield, and quality. Therefore, nutrients should be applied to
sweet potatoes at the right time and in the right amounts. It is recommended
to incorporate organic matter, such as compost, and farm yard manure or crop
residues during land preparation to improve soil structure, fertility, and moisture
retention. Sweet potato requires macronutrients and micronutrients. The
macronutrients include nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sulfur (S),
calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg). While micronutrients include manganese
(Mn), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), and boron (B).
Effective nutrient management in sweet potatoes involves soil testing, appropriate
fertilisation based on the fertility status, proper timing, and irrigation practices.
For more recommendations, see the agricultural field workers.

62 Student’s Book Form Two

04/10/2024 18:07
Agriculture form 2.indd 62 04/10/2024 18:07
Agriculture form 2.indd 62