Best Farming Practices (Step-by-Step)

• Season: Winter crop (April–May sowing)

• Land Preparation: Well-drained soils, firm fine tilth

• Seed Rate & Spacing: 100–120 kg/ha; 20 cm between rows

• Fertilization: Compound D at 300 kg/ha; split AN applications

• Irrigation: Requires 6–8 irrigation cycles; avoid waterlogging

Pest and Disease Management

• Pests: Aphids, leaf miners

• Diseases: Net blotch, scald

• Use resistant cultivars and timely fungicide application

Provincial Differences

• Mainly grown under irrigation in Mashonaland Central and West

• Contract-based production linked to brewing industry

Markets and Profitability

• Contract farming through Delta Beverages

• Yield: 4–6 tonnes/ha

• Price: ~$400–$450/ton under contract

• High profitability due to secure markets and quality premiums