Maize is both a staple food to many part of the world as well as cash crop to farmers and traders however it is important to have knowledge and be well equipped about when and how to properly harvest maize.
To add on that for maize that is ready for harvesting a black layer forms between the kernel and the comb and the grains feel hard when pressed. For farmers that harvest early this should be done when the silk turns brown and for those harvesting late the plant should be fully dry.
Ensuring a proper harvest
Harvest when rains have ended for maize to easily dry properly well as talk to your extension worker about the maturity period since different maize varieties have different maturity periods and to ensure that you match with the harvesting time, however do not delay harvesting to avoid losses from pests, thieves and bush fires. Additionally harvesting should start harvesting early morning when the sun is less and get help from others to easily accomplish the task.
Also harvest in an orderly manner from one end of field to another in order not to miss out some plants and after gather combs in different heaps for easy collection, lastly do not heap maize on bare ground to avoid damaging the kobs and grains.
