Small grains
Production guide for small grains in Africa part 5: Common insect pests affecting small grains
Armyworm The armyworm exists in two distinct phases: 1.The solitary passive phase, where the larvae have green and brown stripes on the back 2.The active phase, where the larvae are velvety black on the back surface, with several yellow lines running the length of the body, broad white lateral[...]
Production guide for small grains in Africa part 4: Pest and disease management
Birds are the worst nightmare for small grain producers, and can reduce yields significantly. Farmers in some areas have abandoned growing small grains due to losses from birds. Quelea birds, which come in large numbers, affect the crop at soft dough stage whilst doves attack the grain at maturity.[...]
Production guide for small grains in Africa part 3: Fertiliser application
Fertiliser has become a big part in a farmer’s operations and budget because the correct and right quantity of fertiliser will give a farmer a better yield. It is recommended that where available, both organic (like manure and compost) and inorganic fertiliser should be applied to small grains. Manure[...]
Production guide for small grains in Africa: Part 1 Fight back against drought
This is a quick production guide for three drought tolerant small grain crops, namely sorghum, pearl millet and finger millet. The three crops are key for household food and nutritional security as well as income in the marginal areas (agro-ecological zones III, IV & V) of Africa. Their significance[...]
Small grains provide hope for female traders in Zimbabwe
While Zimbabwe's smallholder farmers have been slow in embracing large-scale production of small grains such as millet and sorghum, women who have taken up growing such crops have found a ready market in Bulawayo where traditional foods are in demand. Thokozile Mabuza is a fifty something year old widow[...]