Whether you are just looking for a fun outdoor summer activity or consider yourself a serious food producer in pursuit of a bountiful harvest, summer crops require technical know-how. This knowledge is not hard to come by, but summer crops can be considered slightly more challenging to grow.
In this edition of Gather To Grow, experts share their tips on growing summer crops in Mzansi.
According to Siyabonga Vilakazi, deputy director of the training directorate within the KwaZulu-Natal’s department of agriculture and rural development, a critical aspect of summer crops is recognising that different crop types have different nutrient requirements. He adds that their behavioural patterns in relation to their growth and development phases, are also not the same.
Speaking during the session, Vilakazi pointed out that there are a number of crops that growers should consider planting as the days warm up.
“So, obviously have within your pool of crops, legumes, as well as your precursor crops. Example your cabbage, your broccoli, your kale, because with the different crop families or types, they’re going to add different variety and play a significant role as well within the soil.”
Ensure proper irrigation
During the summer months, your crops might need a little extra tender love and care, which is why proper irrigation is paramount. Instead of making use of traditional irrigation systems, perhaps its time to try something else.
According to Dr Lerato Matsaunyane from Pharma Support Enterprise Development, there is another way to help farmers irrigate: the Chameleon soil moisture sensor, which measures water levels and soil moisture content so farmers know when to irrigate.
“When you use the Chameleon, it also assists you in monitoring rainfall patterns. [This is especially beneficial] for smallholders farmers who have not been taught on the importance of having a rain gauge in [their] production area.”
Matsaunyane explains in the session why recording rainfall patterns in a climate change era is especially important.
Experts also share details on:
- reliable soil analysis;
- finding a market for your summers crops;
- the importance of crop rotation and much more.
ALSO READ: Irrigation 101: Getting the watering schedule right
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