Land preparation methods
In Rwanda, the majority of maize farmers use conventional methods of land preparation.
This is mainly used by small scale farmers. The method is slow, labour intensive but
reliable.
These are mainly used by large and medium scale farmers due to high purchase cost, lack of spare parts and expensive fuel consequently even the cost of hiring them is not affordable by most farmers.
An appropriate and proven technology for small and medium scale farmers; it is fuel efficient and cost effective though they might not be efficient on heavy soil. It is multi-purpose and easy to use. However, most farmers are not aware of the benefits of the tractors, probably because they are still new on the market.
This involves the use of oxen to plough the land. With this method the farmer is able to open more land and plant more maize as compared to hand hoe. It is, however, not appropriate where soils are heavy and terrain is steep. It also requires the acquisition and management of the oxen.
After land preparation method, it is also necessary to consider erosion control measures so as to fight from erosion which may destroy the maize or reduce expected yield.
Bench terraces
Erosion control devices
Planting Agroforestry scpecies
Fertilizer application
When you prepare to grow maize, you apply 20 tons per ha of organic manure while preparing the land. In case the soil is acidic, apply 2,5 to 5 tons per ha of lime two weeks before planting. This lime has residual effects for a period of 4 successive farming seasons. Add 250 kg of NPK 17.17.17 per ha in the seed holes while planting or 100kg of DAP per ha. Six weeks after planting, you add 100kg of urea per ha.
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