Frustrated by maize farming? Try these tips

Members of Endorois Women's Community-based Organization apply a concoction of ashes and herbs to a maize plantation to counteract armyworms and pests at their farm at Kabasis village near Lake Bogoria in Baringo county. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

Pest and disease management

Common pests include maize stem borer, fall armyworm and aphids. Early detection can help control the pests. Additionally, farmers can plant resistant maize varieties and use targeted pesticides.

Common maize diseases are maize lethal necrosis, maize streak virus and grey leaf spot. Use disease resistant varieties to avoid dealing with such diseases.

Crop Rotation: Rotating maize with non-host crops helps break the life cycles of pests and pathogens, reducing their buildup in the soil.

Weeding

"Look out for the weeds such as striga. The clean the farm the healthier the maize plant. Clear all the weeds until the maize plant flowers, his avoid competition for nutrients," said Atieno.

Harvesting

Maize is harvested after three to four months for the short season varieties and up to 10 months or more for the long season varieties. Harvesting can be done while the maize is green or when dry. The choice of harvesting method depends on the intended use of the maize.

Maize should be properly dried before storage to prevent spoilage due to fungal growth or insect infestation. Proper drying of maize also helps to preserve the quality of the grain.

Market

Since maize is staple, the market will always be available. Production per acre depends on growth conditions. A bag of maize can range from Sh4,500 to Sh6,500.