TRADITIONALLY, May 15 is the deadline for winter wheat planting, but the uncertainty surrounding production which has become a perennial feature continues as there are no indications that growers will plant the crop this year.
The question remains: Will the cereal output levels increase this season in the face of the myriad challenges confronting the sector?
Despite the power utility, Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA), assuring the nation there is adequate electricity to cater for everyone during this winter season, there remains a plethora of challenges in wheat production.
Limited farmer-support to finance the crop in terms of inputs as most farmers lack collateral to borrow from the bank as well as tight liquidity constraints are some of the challenges impinging on wheat production.
Experts project the hectarage would go down this year as most farmers have not yet started planting, let alone commenced land preparation.
This summer cropping season brought no joy for farmers as they were hit hard by the effects of El-Nino that not only affected Zimbabwe, but other countries in Southern Africa.
As a result, all hopes are now pinned on winter cropping and farmers would have taken advantage of the anticipated rise in the price of the commodity on the international market on the back of challenges affecting major producers of the crop, but that has not been the case.
Crops were a write-off in most parts of the country, with Government declaring a drought.
And more than US$1,5 billion is required to feed at least three million people affected up to next season.
The situation is critical for Masvingo, Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North and north of Midlands which received 50 percent of normal rainfall.
With yields of most summer crops below expectation, stakeholders contend winter wheat production should be adequately supported.
Agronomist Ivan Craig encouraged farmers not to give up on wheat production as it is a vital crop, and there is room for farmers to make profit.
“The secret is in the yield, hence farmers should make sure they achieve maximum yield per hectare (ha) and in turn they will make a profit,” said Craig.
“The maximum yield per ha is between eight and 11 tonnes and even if farmers produce five tonnes, they will still be able to break even.”
Farmers have cited high costs of production as a huge drawback and the reason locally produced wheat was priced higher than that in neighbouring countries.
Electricity costs of between US$700 and US$800 to irrigate a hectare of the crop per season have also made it difficult for farmers to break even.
A hectare of wheat is irrigated after seven days for eight hours before germination and after every 14 days for eight hours after germination till it is harvested.
Craig said for farmers to realise maximum yields, they should follow the correct procedures and ensure they have the right and adequate inputs.
“A farmer should ensure land is well prepared and there is enough water to see the crop from establishment to harvesting,” he said.
“Farmers can approach Agritex and have them do a feasibility study to determine the actual amount of water in their water source and afterwards they will advise on the crop that can be sustained with their water.
“After determining the size of the field, farmers should ensure it is prepared and have adequate seeds and fertilisers.”
When using the broadcasting planting method, farmers require 135 to 140kg of seed per ha and when using the drilling method, 120 to 125kg is required.
Before planting, said Craig, the field should be irrigated until it is saturated.
“After planting it will take up to four days before the plant starts to sprout and water should be withdrawn for 21 days as this encourages deeper development of the roots and the full utilisation of residual nutrients,” he said.
“After 21 days, full irrigation cycle resumes and for those in sandy soils, it should be after every eight to nine days depending on the rate of evaporation and for those in heavy soils, after every 12 to 14 days.”
Craig said after 21 days of planting, it is advisable to then apply herbicides and top dressing.
Compound D fertiliser is applied just before planting.
“Those in heavy soils should apply 350kg of top dressing fertiliser per ha and those in sandy soils, between 400 and 450kg,” said Craig.
“If the fertiliser is to be applied using the broadcasting method, the application should be split into two; for instance those in sandy soils can apply 225kg per ha after the 21 days and the other 225kg after two weeks.”
Regular inspections to check for weeds, pests and diseases is important, said Craig.
He said the crop should be safeguarded from veld fires and logging.
“Farmers should develop a passion for the crop and if they notice anything amiss, be it pests or diseases, they should take a specimen to Agritex officials who will assess and recommend corrective measures,” he said.
“The major challenge in wheat production are the quelea birds which are so destructive.
“When faced with this challenge, a farmer should notify the Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Authority who will offer control methods.”
If correct procedures are followed, yields maximised, farmers will be able to break even and result in the wheat production sector rebounding.