Maize is a staple food and cash crop to many farmer‘s however learning production steps and application of both foliar and solid fertilizers help farmers to boost maize yields.
Always avoid sandy, gravel and shallow soils as they hinder maize growth. There are several maize proper planting tools such as cutlers, dibblers.
A combination of foliar and solid fertilizers increase maize yields.
Production Steps
Begin by selecting site with deep well drained fertile soils and plough or use chemicals before planting to remove weeds and soften the soil.
Then choose the best seed variety with shorter maturity periods for higher yields and plant depending on the recommended planting season.
To add on that carry out germination test using certified seeds by counting, sowing and irrigating one hundred certified seeds.
Additionally plant seeds basing on the germination test results between 85% – 100% plant 2 seeds, 70% – 84% plant 3 seeds, 50% – 70% plant 4 seeds or get better seeds and 0 – 50% get new seeds.
Always plant in rows using proper tools at 80cm between rows and 40cm within rows 5-7 cm deep.
Foliar and solid fertilizers
Apply 100kg NPK fertilizers per acre by making holes at 5 cm from plant base during the first week.
Also apply 250ml maize starter per acre that is to say 50ml per 15 litres knapsack during second week.
Conclusively measure 25ml maize starter and pour in 15 litre knapsack sprayer half filled with water, close and shake well for thorough mixture and lastly fill knapsack with water.
