Zimbabwe expects nearly two million tons of maize this year despite a shortened growing season. The harvest exceeds the 1.8 million tons needed for food production. Farmers faced early challenges when rains started in November but disappeared until late December. Good rainfall from Christmas through early April helped crops recover. Many farmers planted later than planned but still managed decent yields.
Conservation farming methods worked well during the unusual weather patterns. The Pfumvudza program helped retain moisture through mulching techniques. Southern regions received above-average rainfall for those typically dry areas. Northern areas saw slightly less rain than normal, especially in the main farming province of Mashonaland West. Traditional grains like sorghum should produce good results because they handle inconsistent rainfall better.
The country will harvest plenty of winter wheat since dam levels rose higher than last year. Combined grain production will create a reasonable surplus this season. Officials must balance food needs against animal feed requirements. Climate change continues to bring new challenges to farming across the nation. Irrigation systems help farmers overcome dry spells during important growing periods.
Conservation farming methods worked well during the unusual weather patterns. The Pfumvudza program helped retain moisture through mulching techniques. Southern regions received above-average rainfall for those typically dry areas. Northern areas saw slightly less rain than normal, especially in the main farming province of Mashonaland West. Traditional grains like sorghum should produce good results because they handle inconsistent rainfall better.
The country will harvest plenty of winter wheat since dam levels rose higher than last year. Combined grain production will create a reasonable surplus this season. Officials must balance food needs against animal feed requirements. Climate change continues to bring new challenges to farming across the nation. Irrigation systems help farmers overcome dry spells during important growing periods.
