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What are the ideal climatic conditions for growing maize?
What are the ideal climatic conditions for growing maize?
Maize requires a hot sunny climate with about 450mm of evenly distributed rainfall and average temperatures of 24°C.
What soil type and pH range are optimum for maize cultivation?
What soil type and pH range are optimum for maize cultivation?
Maize thrives in well-drained soils, preferably deep loam rich in organic matter, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.
What is the recommended seed rate for maize planting, and how does it vary?
What is the recommended seed rate for maize planting, and how does it vary?
The recommended seed rate for maize is 22kg per hectare, which can vary between 17 and 35 kg/ha depending on variety and spacing.
How should herbicides be used for effective weed control in maize?
How should herbicides be used for effective weed control in maize?
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Describe one cultural method for controlling weeds in maize production.
Describe one cultural method for controlling weeds in maize production.
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What are non-selective herbicides and when are they applied in maize cultivation?
What are non-selective herbicides and when are they applied in maize cultivation?
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List three signs that indicate maize is ready for harvesting.
List three signs that indicate maize is ready for harvesting.
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How long does it typically take for maize to be ready for harvesting for dry grains?
How long does it typically take for maize to be ready for harvesting for dry grains?
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What are some common storage methods used for maize?
What are some common storage methods used for maize?
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What is the purpose of the Maize (Classification and Grading) Regulations?
What is the purpose of the Maize (Classification and Grading) Regulations?
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Study Notes
Crop Production - Maize (Zea Mays)
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Climatic Requirements: Hot, sunny climate with evenly distributed rainfall (450mm) during growing season; average temperatures of 24°C.
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Soil Type and pH: Wide range of soils (sand to clay), well-drained; high yields in deep loam soils rich in organic matter. pH range of 5.5 to 7.0 is suitable.
Seedbed Preparation
- Ploughing to a depth of 25-30cm.
- Breaking soil clods using a disc.
- Leveling and harrowing to medium tilth.
Planting Time
- In Botswana: October (onset) to March (end).
Planting Maize
- Seed rate: 22-35 kg/ha (depending on variety and spacing).
- Planting depth: 5-8 cm.
- Row spacing: 90 cm.
- Spacing within rows: 30 cm.
- Planted directly using seeds.
- Target 40,000 plants/hectare.
Manure Application
- Basal dressing: 1000 kg/ha of 2:3:2 + 1% Zn fertilizer applied with planter.
- Kraal manure: 30,000 kg/ha broadcast and dug in 5 weeks before planting.
- Top dressing: 100 kg/ha LAN (28%) 4 weeks after planting, applied with planter in rows.
Weed Control
- Mechanical: Digging, tilling, cultivating, hoeing, slashing, and hand-pulling.
- Cultural: Mulching, crop rotation, early planting, clean seeds.
- Chemical: Selective herbicides (e.g., Duron, 2,4-D) target specific weed types; non-selective herbicides (e.g., Atrazine, glyphosate) kill all plants.
Crop Maturity Recognition
- Dry grains: Yellow leaves, dry papery husks, hard grains, moisture content around 20%.
Harvesting
- 13-15 weeks for fresh cobs; 18 weeks for dry cobs.
- De-husking traditionally done by hand/knife, or using self-propelled maize combine harvesters.
Storage Methods
- Storage in cribs on the ground
- Open-basket storage
- Bins roofed with brick
- Metal silos
- Bag storage
- Moisture content should reach approximately 12% for safe storage after harvesting and stacking.
Marketing
- Harvesting, stocking, transport, temporary storage, drying, husking, shelling, winnowing, weighing, bagging, pricing.
- Selling to individuals, local traders via cooperatives/BAMB.
Relevant Legislation
- Maize (Classification and Grading) Regulations: 1974/75 crop season onwards.
- Control of Goods (Import and Export of Agricultural Products) Regulations: Covers import/export of maize.
Record Keeping
- Farm Diary: Records important daily events.
- Production Records: Focus on activities involved in manufacturing/producing goods (e.g., labour, machinery, water, fertilizer, yield).
- Financial Records: Profit and loss accounts, sales, income, expenses.
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Description
This quiz explores the essential aspects of maize production, including climatic requirements, soil types, seedbed preparation, and planting techniques. Discover the optimal conditions for growing maize and learn about important practices such as manure application and planting times. Test your knowledge on maize farming in Botswana and improve your agricultural understanding.
