Partner: Augustana, West St. Paul, Minn.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Pastor: Nickson Mwitulla
Evangelist: Hopeman Kihonza
Pastor Nickson had been assigned to Ipagoro in November. He was ordained on January 18, 2009. He had been present at the 3rd meeting with the Ag. Institute in November, but was still pretty new to the CVP program. There were not many people in attendance. Because of the recent rains the people were weeding their own fields. Local farmers have their fields out and away from the village of Ipagoro and did not come back for this meeting.
The corn looked quite good as a result of the rain that they received four days ago. The CVP plot at this parish is at two locations, one at the main church and one at a preaching point. This is because there was not enough land around the church to have two one-half acre plots. The plots at the main church are located in a prominent location, right outside the door for the church. Pastor Nickson said that a lot of people walk by and can observe the practices that are being demonstrated.
Today we delivered 100 kg of NPK, 100 kg of CAN, 16 kg of Uyole Market seed, and I bottle of Thionex.
The corn was planted on December 20, 2008 and two weeks later they replanted where the seed did not germinate and emerge. One could see the smaller plants that had been replanted and are now trying to catch up. The rows averaged about 63 cm apart, and the plants averaged 33.3 cm apart. Ibrahim emphasized the importance of proper row and plant spacing. In these demonstration plots we are applying fertilizer to high plant populations in order to maximize yield, but we need to have the correct spacing to achieve the high plant populations.
We met outside under the tree between the corn and the bean plots. Ihrahim went through the handout. He emphasized the importance of weeding, and pointed out that lack of weeding has been shown to be the biggest deterrent to crop yield. He also went through the Record of Events sheet which he gave to them to record the dates when important events occurred.
Ibrahim demonstrated the placement of the second application of fertilizer (CAN) 5 cm on each side of the corn plants. The fertilizer should be placed 5 cm, the distance between the second knuckle and the tip of the index finger, from the plant along side of the row and not in the row. Ibrahim demonstrated how to plant and fertilize the bean seeds. First dig a row or trench with the hoe by digging at 90 degrees to the direction of the trench. Place the bean seeds 9 cm apart, or about the width of one’s fist, and then place one cap of fertilizer between the bean seeds. Finally cover the bean seeds and fertilizer with soil. If there is any fertilizer left over it should be broadcast over the entire plot.
Ibrahim asked if they have experienced any benefits from the teaching we have done and the demonstrations that have been conducted. Some of their responses were:
· Placing the residue in rows between the corn.
o Previously they had been concerned about termites.
o Now they see that the corn is doing fine.
o They can see that the residue helps hold moisture.
· One person said that they had taught their neighbor how to put the crop residue in rows between the corn.
· They asked if they have double plants can they separate and replant, we said yes, they should do this.
· Plant spacing
o They always thought that the plants should be far apart
o There have been comments on how close the plants were in the demonstration plot.
o They were surprised that today we told them that the plants should be even closer together.
· Fertilization
o Taking soil tests to determine the kind and amount of fertilizer to apply.
o A better understanding of the types of fertilizer, NPK, CAN.
o The reason to use CAN and not Urea as a source of nitrogen.
· One person stated that they were pleased with what they have already learned and believes that they will learn even more as this crop grows and the plot is repeated during the next two years.
· Because of its location, a number of people have observed the plot and have asked questions, especially about fertilizer and seed.
Photo link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21557421@N08/sets/72157604428690017/detail/
Friday, January 30, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Itungi - 4th CVP Visit
Thurs., January 29, 2009
Partner: Como Park, St. Paul, Minn.
Pastor: Damion Ndangando
Intern: Nuru Makweta
At breakfast in the pastor’s house we learned that their daughter Joyce is the pastor at Kidabaga. We also learned that the intern Nuru is a student at Tumaini in the Diploma in Theology program (probably sponsored by one of the companion congregations) and expects to graduate in October 2009.
We drove to the site of the plot. The plot had to be moves from the preferred location near the church because that plot had gotten burned. This resulted in their getting a late start with this plot. The corn was planted on December 29, which I think is the latest planting date for any of the CVP plots. Even with the late planting date the corn looked good, it was almost knee high 31 days after planting. The corn was a very uniform height. Because of the late planting the CVP plot is behind some of the village plots, but I expect that is going to change in the next month or so. The first weeding was taking place when we arrived. The pastor and 16 others were almost completed with the weeding. They had not started weeding the bean plot yet, and the weeds were two to three feet tall.
The rows were quite wide from 70 up to 120 cm wide. The attendees were surprised that the rows were that far apart. These were the widest row spacing that we have seen. There was an average of one plant every 28 cm of row. We spent quite a bit of time talking about the proper row and plant spacing. We are trying to properly fertilize high plant populations in order to maximize yield, but we need to have the correct spacing to achieve the high plant populations. I’ll bet that the beans will be planted closer to the targeted spacing, and that next year the corn will be planted in higher plan populations.
Today we delivered 100 kg of NPK, 100 kg of CAN, 16 kg of Uyole Market seed, and I bottle of Thionex.
We met under a tree in the plot. Ibrahim went through the handout for the 4th visit. He emphasized the importance of weeding, that lack of weeding can be the biggest deterrent to crop yield. He also emphasized seed spacing at planting, since we are trying to fertilize high plant populations to maximize yield it is important to properly space the seeds so that we actually get high plant populations. He also went through Record of Events handout and showed them how to record specific events.
Ibrahim demonstrated the placement of the second application of fertilizer (CAN) 5 cm on each side of the corn plants. The fertilizer should be placed 5 cm from the plant along side of the row and not in the row. Ibrahim demonstrated how to plant and fertilize the bean seeds. First dig a row or trench with the hoe by digging at 90 degrees to the direction of the trench. Place the bean seeds 9 cm apart, or about the width of one’s fist, and then place one cap of fertilizer between the bean seeds. Finally cover the bean seeds and fertilizer with soil. If there is any fertilizer left over it should be broadcast over the entire plot.
Ibrahim asked if they have experienced any benefits from the teaching we have done and the demonstrations that have been conducted. Some of their responses were:
· They appreciated learning the new farming techniques.
· They were happy to see different and better ways of farming.
· Leaving residue in the rows is a new technique, but it seems to work well.
· Minimum tillage saves time and money.
· They used to plant corn even wider apart than what the CVP plot turned out to be; now they can see the advantages of high plant populations.
· They like the idea of one crop in the field at a time.
There weren’t any comments about fertilization, but I think that the late planting date has not allowed the impact of fertilization to be realized.
Photo link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21557421@N08/sets/72157604425908368/detail/
Partner: Como Park, St. Paul, Minn.
Pastor: Damion Ndangando
Intern: Nuru Makweta
At breakfast in the pastor’s house we learned that their daughter Joyce is the pastor at Kidabaga. We also learned that the intern Nuru is a student at Tumaini in the Diploma in Theology program (probably sponsored by one of the companion congregations) and expects to graduate in October 2009.
We drove to the site of the plot. The plot had to be moves from the preferred location near the church because that plot had gotten burned. This resulted in their getting a late start with this plot. The corn was planted on December 29, which I think is the latest planting date for any of the CVP plots. Even with the late planting date the corn looked good, it was almost knee high 31 days after planting. The corn was a very uniform height. Because of the late planting the CVP plot is behind some of the village plots, but I expect that is going to change in the next month or so. The first weeding was taking place when we arrived. The pastor and 16 others were almost completed with the weeding. They had not started weeding the bean plot yet, and the weeds were two to three feet tall.
The rows were quite wide from 70 up to 120 cm wide. The attendees were surprised that the rows were that far apart. These were the widest row spacing that we have seen. There was an average of one plant every 28 cm of row. We spent quite a bit of time talking about the proper row and plant spacing. We are trying to properly fertilize high plant populations in order to maximize yield, but we need to have the correct spacing to achieve the high plant populations. I’ll bet that the beans will be planted closer to the targeted spacing, and that next year the corn will be planted in higher plan populations.
Today we delivered 100 kg of NPK, 100 kg of CAN, 16 kg of Uyole Market seed, and I bottle of Thionex.
We met under a tree in the plot. Ibrahim went through the handout for the 4th visit. He emphasized the importance of weeding, that lack of weeding can be the biggest deterrent to crop yield. He also emphasized seed spacing at planting, since we are trying to fertilize high plant populations to maximize yield it is important to properly space the seeds so that we actually get high plant populations. He also went through Record of Events handout and showed them how to record specific events.
Ibrahim demonstrated the placement of the second application of fertilizer (CAN) 5 cm on each side of the corn plants. The fertilizer should be placed 5 cm from the plant along side of the row and not in the row. Ibrahim demonstrated how to plant and fertilize the bean seeds. First dig a row or trench with the hoe by digging at 90 degrees to the direction of the trench. Place the bean seeds 9 cm apart, or about the width of one’s fist, and then place one cap of fertilizer between the bean seeds. Finally cover the bean seeds and fertilizer with soil. If there is any fertilizer left over it should be broadcast over the entire plot.
Ibrahim asked if they have experienced any benefits from the teaching we have done and the demonstrations that have been conducted. Some of their responses were:
· They appreciated learning the new farming techniques.
· They were happy to see different and better ways of farming.
· Leaving residue in the rows is a new technique, but it seems to work well.
· Minimum tillage saves time and money.
· They used to plant corn even wider apart than what the CVP plot turned out to be; now they can see the advantages of high plant populations.
· They like the idea of one crop in the field at a time.
There weren’t any comments about fertilization, but I think that the late planting date has not allowed the impact of fertilization to be realized.
Photo link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21557421@N08/sets/72157604425908368/detail/
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Nduli – 4th visit
Partner: Christ the King, New Brighton, Minn.
Wed., January 28, 2009
Pastor: Laiton Muyinga
Roger was incapacitated and did not participate in the visit today.
The plot looked very good except that it hasn’t had enough rain. Even without rain the plot looked better than surrounding fields in the community. The corn was very dry and the leaves were curled. They have not had any rain from January 2 till now (the 28th). The average row spacing was 60 cm, and there were an average of one plant every 25 cm of row.
Today we delivered 100 kg of NPK, 100 kg of CAN, 16 kg of Uyole Market seed. I bottle of Thionex had been previously delivered.
Ibrahim went through the hand outs. He emphasized the importance of weeding, that lack of weeding can be the biggest deterrent to crop yield. He also emphasized seed spacing at planting, since we are trying to fertilize high plant populations to maximize yield it is important to properly space the seeds so that we actually get high plant populations.
Ibrahim asked if they have experienced any benefits from the teaching we have done and the demonstrations that have been conducted. Some of their responses were:
· Appropriate fertilizer use, this helps him to be able to take a loan to purchase fertilizer to use on his farm without hesitating.
· Plant spacing, planting one seed per hole has resulted in more vigorous plants on his farm.
· One farmer said he is old and regrets that this program came along very late in his life. He is happy with this CVP program help, the rows look great.
· Putting crop residue in rows and letting it incorporate into the soil.
· Minimum tillage.
· Less expensive practices.
· They like not burning.
· She is happy with single crop in one area
· She understands very well about proper weeding.
Ibrahim demonstrated the placement of the second application of fertilizer (CAN) 5 cm on each side of the corn plants. The fertilizer should be placed 5 cm from the plant along side of the row and not in the row. Ibrahim demonstrated how to plant and fertilize the bean seeds. First dig a row or trench with the corner of the hoe, or if the ground is hard dig a continuous trench by digging at 90 degrees to the direction of the trench. Place the bean seeds 9 cm apart, or about the width of one’s fist, and then place one cap of fertilizer between the bean seeds. Finally cover the bean seeds and fertilizer with soil.
Photo link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21557421@N08/sets/72157604418504820/detail/
Wed., January 28, 2009
Pastor: Laiton Muyinga
Roger was incapacitated and did not participate in the visit today.
The plot looked very good except that it hasn’t had enough rain. Even without rain the plot looked better than surrounding fields in the community. The corn was very dry and the leaves were curled. They have not had any rain from January 2 till now (the 28th). The average row spacing was 60 cm, and there were an average of one plant every 25 cm of row.
Today we delivered 100 kg of NPK, 100 kg of CAN, 16 kg of Uyole Market seed. I bottle of Thionex had been previously delivered.
Ibrahim went through the hand outs. He emphasized the importance of weeding, that lack of weeding can be the biggest deterrent to crop yield. He also emphasized seed spacing at planting, since we are trying to fertilize high plant populations to maximize yield it is important to properly space the seeds so that we actually get high plant populations.
Ibrahim asked if they have experienced any benefits from the teaching we have done and the demonstrations that have been conducted. Some of their responses were:
· Appropriate fertilizer use, this helps him to be able to take a loan to purchase fertilizer to use on his farm without hesitating.
· Plant spacing, planting one seed per hole has resulted in more vigorous plants on his farm.
· One farmer said he is old and regrets that this program came along very late in his life. He is happy with this CVP program help, the rows look great.
· Putting crop residue in rows and letting it incorporate into the soil.
· Minimum tillage.
· Less expensive practices.
· They like not burning.
· She is happy with single crop in one area
· She understands very well about proper weeding.
Ibrahim demonstrated the placement of the second application of fertilizer (CAN) 5 cm on each side of the corn plants. The fertilizer should be placed 5 cm from the plant along side of the row and not in the row. Ibrahim demonstrated how to plant and fertilize the bean seeds. First dig a row or trench with the corner of the hoe, or if the ground is hard dig a continuous trench by digging at 90 degrees to the direction of the trench. Place the bean seeds 9 cm apart, or about the width of one’s fist, and then place one cap of fertilizer between the bean seeds. Finally cover the bean seeds and fertilizer with soil.
Photo link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21557421@N08/sets/72157604418504820/detail/
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Kilolo - 4th CVP Visit
Partner: King of Kings, Woodbury, Minn.
Tuesday January 27, 2009
Pastor Yona Kinganga and the recently ordained evangelist David Mapepele from the Luganga preaching point was there.
10 attendees from Kilolo
The plot is located right next to the church and the corn looked great. These were the best looking plots that we’ve seen so far. One can tell that this congregation and the pastor take these plots seriously. Some of the corn was shoulder high. There was a noticeable difference between the CVP plot and the neighboring fields, the corn was a foot to 18 inches taller. The pastor pointed out that they ran out of fertilizer part way (about 90%) through the plot, again demonstrating a marked difference that the proper fertilizer applied in the correct manner can have. What a great visual reinforcement of what we are trying to teach them.
Most of the corn rows were 60 cm apart, but they ranged up to the 70s and one was as high as 80 cm apart. There was an average of 23.6 cm between plants in a row. These were the highest plant densities we’ve encountered so far.
The bean plot had been weeded and the residue had been placed in 60 cm rows. This was the first CVP plot that we have visited where the bean plot had been weeded before we got there.
Today we delivered 100 kg of NPK, 100 kg of CAN, 16 kg of Uyole Market seed. I bottle of Thionex had been previously delivered.
We met in church and reviewed the plot activities. The first rain occurred on November 23, 2008. The corn was planted on December 1, 2008. Places where corn did not emerge were replanted two weeks later on December 15 & 16. The corn has been weeded twice, on December 17–22 and again on January 12-16. The corn was sprayed with insecticide (Thionex) on January 10-11, 2009.
Ibrahim went through the hand outs. He emphasized the importance of weeding, that lack of weeding can be the biggest deterrent to crop yield. He also emphasized seed spacing at planting, since we are trying to fertilize high plant populations to maximize yield it is important to properly space the seeds so that we actually get high plant populations.
Ibrahim asked if they have experienced any benefits from the teaching we have done and the demonstrations that have been conducted. Some of their responses were:
· The use of soil tests to determine fertilizer recommendations, and not just guessing as to how much to apply.
· Appropriate fertilizer measurements to assure application of the correct amount.
· The advantages of using fertilizer, they can see the impact of using fertilizer.
· Minimum tillage reduces the cost of production, the community has also noticed the advantages of minimum tillage.
· Placing the residue between the rows of corn has helped to control weeds.
· They used to plant 3 seeds in a hole about 60 cm apart. They thought that planting seeds 20 cm apart was too close. With fertilization, they can see the advantage of close planting, and having single plants at 20 cm instead of having three plants at 60 cm.
· In the past they mixed crops, now they realize that one crop at a time gives the best results.
Ibrahim demonstrated the placement of the second application of fertilizer (CAN) 5 cm on each side of the corn plants. The fertilizer should be placed 5 cm from the plant along side of the row and not in the row. Ibrahim demonstrated how to plant and fertilize the bean seeds. First dig a row or trench with the corner of the hoe, or if the ground is hard dig a continuous trench by digging at 90 degrees to the direction of the trench. Place the bean seeds 9 cm apart, or about the width of one’s fist, and then place one cap of fertilizer between the bean seeds. Finally cover the bean seeds and fertilizer with soil.
While eating lunch in the pastor’s house we noticed some Urafiki beans and asked some questions.
· They have had a positive experience with Urafiki beans.
· They have eaten the beans themselves and have sold some.
· They are a bush type bean, about 20 inches tall and about 10 inches wide.
· They yield more than Uyole beans.
· However, the Urafiki beans don’t taste as good as the Uyole beans.
· The Urafiki beans don’t have gas and they store better, especially in warm areas.
o If one makes Urafiki beans for lunch, you can have them again for dinner.
o If one makes Uyole beans for lunch, they will get soft and start to ferment before dinne.
· Urafiki beans are good for feeding large groups of people.
Photo link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21557421@N08/sets/72157604431106091/detail/
Tuesday January 27, 2009
Pastor Yona Kinganga and the recently ordained evangelist David Mapepele from the Luganga preaching point was there.
10 attendees from Kilolo
The plot is located right next to the church and the corn looked great. These were the best looking plots that we’ve seen so far. One can tell that this congregation and the pastor take these plots seriously. Some of the corn was shoulder high. There was a noticeable difference between the CVP plot and the neighboring fields, the corn was a foot to 18 inches taller. The pastor pointed out that they ran out of fertilizer part way (about 90%) through the plot, again demonstrating a marked difference that the proper fertilizer applied in the correct manner can have. What a great visual reinforcement of what we are trying to teach them.
Most of the corn rows were 60 cm apart, but they ranged up to the 70s and one was as high as 80 cm apart. There was an average of 23.6 cm between plants in a row. These were the highest plant densities we’ve encountered so far.
The bean plot had been weeded and the residue had been placed in 60 cm rows. This was the first CVP plot that we have visited where the bean plot had been weeded before we got there.
Today we delivered 100 kg of NPK, 100 kg of CAN, 16 kg of Uyole Market seed. I bottle of Thionex had been previously delivered.
We met in church and reviewed the plot activities. The first rain occurred on November 23, 2008. The corn was planted on December 1, 2008. Places where corn did not emerge were replanted two weeks later on December 15 & 16. The corn has been weeded twice, on December 17–22 and again on January 12-16. The corn was sprayed with insecticide (Thionex) on January 10-11, 2009.
Ibrahim went through the hand outs. He emphasized the importance of weeding, that lack of weeding can be the biggest deterrent to crop yield. He also emphasized seed spacing at planting, since we are trying to fertilize high plant populations to maximize yield it is important to properly space the seeds so that we actually get high plant populations.
Ibrahim asked if they have experienced any benefits from the teaching we have done and the demonstrations that have been conducted. Some of their responses were:
· The use of soil tests to determine fertilizer recommendations, and not just guessing as to how much to apply.
· Appropriate fertilizer measurements to assure application of the correct amount.
· The advantages of using fertilizer, they can see the impact of using fertilizer.
· Minimum tillage reduces the cost of production, the community has also noticed the advantages of minimum tillage.
· Placing the residue between the rows of corn has helped to control weeds.
· They used to plant 3 seeds in a hole about 60 cm apart. They thought that planting seeds 20 cm apart was too close. With fertilization, they can see the advantage of close planting, and having single plants at 20 cm instead of having three plants at 60 cm.
· In the past they mixed crops, now they realize that one crop at a time gives the best results.
Ibrahim demonstrated the placement of the second application of fertilizer (CAN) 5 cm on each side of the corn plants. The fertilizer should be placed 5 cm from the plant along side of the row and not in the row. Ibrahim demonstrated how to plant and fertilize the bean seeds. First dig a row or trench with the corner of the hoe, or if the ground is hard dig a continuous trench by digging at 90 degrees to the direction of the trench. Place the bean seeds 9 cm apart, or about the width of one’s fist, and then place one cap of fertilizer between the bean seeds. Finally cover the bean seeds and fertilizer with soil.
While eating lunch in the pastor’s house we noticed some Urafiki beans and asked some questions.
· They have had a positive experience with Urafiki beans.
· They have eaten the beans themselves and have sold some.
· They are a bush type bean, about 20 inches tall and about 10 inches wide.
· They yield more than Uyole beans.
· However, the Urafiki beans don’t taste as good as the Uyole beans.
· The Urafiki beans don’t have gas and they store better, especially in warm areas.
o If one makes Urafiki beans for lunch, you can have them again for dinner.
o If one makes Uyole beans for lunch, they will get soft and start to ferment before dinne.
· Urafiki beans are good for feeding large groups of people.
Photo link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21557421@N08/sets/72157604431106091/detail/
Kidabaga - 4th CVP Visit
Partner: Faith, Forest Lake, Minn.
Tuesday January 27, 2009
Pastor: Joyce Ndangando
We met in Pastor Joyce’s house, and reviewed plot activities. There was a small group, five plus those from the Institute. The corn was planted on December 3 at the Kidebaga plot and December 16 at the Ilamba preaching point. They tried to replant in those spaces where a plant didn’t come up, but the lack of moisture hindered the germination and emergence of the replanted seed. The corn has been weeded one time since planting. They will weed once more before making the 2nd application of fertilizer to the corn.
Today we delivered 100 kg of NPK, 100 kg of CAN, and two 8 kg bags of Uyole Market seed. Insecticide (Thionex) was delivered in January.
We discussed the proper use of fertilizer, and the fact that we are using CAN instead of Urea because the pH is somewhat acidic. One attendee said that they have had problems in the past with fertilizer usage, resulting in reduced yields. We said that perhaps they didn’t use the right kind of fertilizer or perhaps the fertilizer was placed too close to the seed.
The plot was a long way from the church and long way uphill and away from the road. We had to drive about ½ mile from the church, and then walk/climb a long ways up a hill to get to the plot. Once we got there it was on a very steep slope. I wonder how many people will see this plot and the improved farming practices we are trying to demonstrate, because of its remote location.
When we got to the plot the rows were 60 cm apart, or a little less. There was an average of 9 plants per 300 cm of row so the plants were about 33.3 cm apart.
Ibrahim demonstrated the placement of the second application of fertilizer (CAN) 5 cm on each side of the corn plants. The fertilizer should be placed 5 cm, the distance between the second knuckle and the tip of the index finger, from the plant along side of the row and not in the row. Ibrahim demonstrated how to plant and fertilize the bean seeds. First dig a row or trench with the hoe by digging at 90 degrees to the direction of the trench. Place the bean seeds 9 cm apart, or about the width of one’s fist, and then place one cap of fertilizer between the bean seeds. Finally cover the bean seeds and fertilizer with soil. If there is any fertilizer left over it should be broadcast over the entire plot.
We asked if they have experienced any benefits from the teaching we have done and the demonstrations that have been conducted. Some of their responses were:
· Planting one seed instead of many seeds at the same place (hole). The corn in the demonstration plot which was planted one seed in each place looks very good.
· One farmer said he used to plant randomly, and now he plants in rows. This makes his plot easier to weed and apply insecticide.
· One farmer said they used to intercrop, and it was hard to weed. Now with one crop it is easier to weed, and they can cover a larger area in the same amount of time.
Photo link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21557421@N08/sets/72157607713947014/detail/
Tuesday January 27, 2009
Pastor: Joyce Ndangando
We met in Pastor Joyce’s house, and reviewed plot activities. There was a small group, five plus those from the Institute. The corn was planted on December 3 at the Kidebaga plot and December 16 at the Ilamba preaching point. They tried to replant in those spaces where a plant didn’t come up, but the lack of moisture hindered the germination and emergence of the replanted seed. The corn has been weeded one time since planting. They will weed once more before making the 2nd application of fertilizer to the corn.
Today we delivered 100 kg of NPK, 100 kg of CAN, and two 8 kg bags of Uyole Market seed. Insecticide (Thionex) was delivered in January.
We discussed the proper use of fertilizer, and the fact that we are using CAN instead of Urea because the pH is somewhat acidic. One attendee said that they have had problems in the past with fertilizer usage, resulting in reduced yields. We said that perhaps they didn’t use the right kind of fertilizer or perhaps the fertilizer was placed too close to the seed.
The plot was a long way from the church and long way uphill and away from the road. We had to drive about ½ mile from the church, and then walk/climb a long ways up a hill to get to the plot. Once we got there it was on a very steep slope. I wonder how many people will see this plot and the improved farming practices we are trying to demonstrate, because of its remote location.
When we got to the plot the rows were 60 cm apart, or a little less. There was an average of 9 plants per 300 cm of row so the plants were about 33.3 cm apart.
Ibrahim demonstrated the placement of the second application of fertilizer (CAN) 5 cm on each side of the corn plants. The fertilizer should be placed 5 cm, the distance between the second knuckle and the tip of the index finger, from the plant along side of the row and not in the row. Ibrahim demonstrated how to plant and fertilize the bean seeds. First dig a row or trench with the hoe by digging at 90 degrees to the direction of the trench. Place the bean seeds 9 cm apart, or about the width of one’s fist, and then place one cap of fertilizer between the bean seeds. Finally cover the bean seeds and fertilizer with soil. If there is any fertilizer left over it should be broadcast over the entire plot.
We asked if they have experienced any benefits from the teaching we have done and the demonstrations that have been conducted. Some of their responses were:
· Planting one seed instead of many seeds at the same place (hole). The corn in the demonstration plot which was planted one seed in each place looks very good.
· One farmer said he used to plant randomly, and now he plants in rows. This makes his plot easier to weed and apply insecticide.
· One farmer said they used to intercrop, and it was hard to weed. Now with one crop it is easier to weed, and they can cover a larger area in the same amount of time.
Photo link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21557421@N08/sets/72157607713947014/detail/
Monday, January 26, 2009
Mwatasi - 4th CVP Visit
Partner: Trinity, Stillwater, Minn.
Pastor: Upendo Ndendya’s
Monday, January 26, 2009
13 people in attendance
Met in the church
Today was a review of what’s happened with the plots, a demonstration of how to make the second application to corn, and how to prepare the rows, plant and fertilize the beans.
The corn was planted on November 28th. They have observed some insects, and we gave them a bottle of Thionex. The corn must be doing fine, because they said that farmers from the community have commented as they have walked past the plot. The plot is located on a fairly steep slope not far away from the church. When we visited the plot the corn was doing fine, a lot better than neighboring fields. It was on average waist high, with some shoulder high.
We brought with us 100 kg of NPK, 100 kg of CAN, 1 bottle of Thionex, 8 kg of Uyole 2003 bean seed, and 8 kg of Uyole Mkt bean seed.
We discussed the importance of weeding regularly, and the fact that lack of weeding can be the greatest deterrent to yield. We also reemphasized the correct weeding technique that is clipping the weeds off just below the surface.
We conducted our survey of plant populations and found that the rows were usually 60 cm apart, some as far as 65 cm. There were on average 12 plants per 300 cm of row or an average of one plant every 25 cm. This plot was one of the most consistent and closest to the plan of 20 cm apart in the row of the plots that we have looked at so far. The attendees were impressed that we placed so much emphasis on the correct spacing of rows and plants within a row. We explained that our goal was to use high plant populations with fertilization to achieve higher yields, but that we needed to be sure that there were high plant populations.
After going through the handout we asked if there were any questions, and when there were none Ibrahim asked if there were any benefits to farmers in the community from our visits and discussions. A number of items were raised:
· How to measure fertilizer, that is two caps per corn seed, etc.
· How far apart to place the corn and bean seeds.
· How far from the seeds to place the fertilizer.
o One attendee said that he had used fertilizer in the past, but that he had placed the seed and the fertilizer in the same hole (Spot), the seed didn’t germinate, and when he dug up the seed it was shriveled up.
o Now he knows how to place the seeds and fertilizer correctly.
· A better understanding of the different types of fertilizer.
· The reason to use CAN vs. Urea.
· They asked about getting soil samples on their farms, and we suggested that they use the results and recommendations from the sample that was taken from the CVP plot.
We demonstrated how to make the second application of fertilizer (CAN) to corn. They are planning on doing it January 28, which is this week. The two caps per plant should be 5 cm away from the corn plant on the uphill and downhill side of the plant.
We discussed and demonstrated how to plant the beans. Because they get a lot of rain in Mwatasi they will plant the beans in March with a plan to harvest in July and August. We marked the hoe at 50 cm and 9 cm and discussed the fact that 9 cm was the width of one’s fist. Ibrahim demonstrated how to clip the weeds and place them in rows 50 cm apart. He then dug a row (trench) with the corner of the hoe and showed how to place the bean seeds 9 cm apart, and then how to place one cap of fertilizer (NPK) between the bean seeds. They said that they usually planted two bean seeds per hole, and that they were 15 cm apart.
Photo link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21557421@N08/sets/72157604580600254/detail/
Pastor: Upendo Ndendya’s
Monday, January 26, 2009
13 people in attendance
Met in the church
Today was a review of what’s happened with the plots, a demonstration of how to make the second application to corn, and how to prepare the rows, plant and fertilize the beans.
The corn was planted on November 28th. They have observed some insects, and we gave them a bottle of Thionex. The corn must be doing fine, because they said that farmers from the community have commented as they have walked past the plot. The plot is located on a fairly steep slope not far away from the church. When we visited the plot the corn was doing fine, a lot better than neighboring fields. It was on average waist high, with some shoulder high.
We brought with us 100 kg of NPK, 100 kg of CAN, 1 bottle of Thionex, 8 kg of Uyole 2003 bean seed, and 8 kg of Uyole Mkt bean seed.
We discussed the importance of weeding regularly, and the fact that lack of weeding can be the greatest deterrent to yield. We also reemphasized the correct weeding technique that is clipping the weeds off just below the surface.
We conducted our survey of plant populations and found that the rows were usually 60 cm apart, some as far as 65 cm. There were on average 12 plants per 300 cm of row or an average of one plant every 25 cm. This plot was one of the most consistent and closest to the plan of 20 cm apart in the row of the plots that we have looked at so far. The attendees were impressed that we placed so much emphasis on the correct spacing of rows and plants within a row. We explained that our goal was to use high plant populations with fertilization to achieve higher yields, but that we needed to be sure that there were high plant populations.
After going through the handout we asked if there were any questions, and when there were none Ibrahim asked if there were any benefits to farmers in the community from our visits and discussions. A number of items were raised:
· How to measure fertilizer, that is two caps per corn seed, etc.
· How far apart to place the corn and bean seeds.
· How far from the seeds to place the fertilizer.
o One attendee said that he had used fertilizer in the past, but that he had placed the seed and the fertilizer in the same hole (Spot), the seed didn’t germinate, and when he dug up the seed it was shriveled up.
o Now he knows how to place the seeds and fertilizer correctly.
· A better understanding of the different types of fertilizer.
· The reason to use CAN vs. Urea.
· They asked about getting soil samples on their farms, and we suggested that they use the results and recommendations from the sample that was taken from the CVP plot.
We demonstrated how to make the second application of fertilizer (CAN) to corn. They are planning on doing it January 28, which is this week. The two caps per plant should be 5 cm away from the corn plant on the uphill and downhill side of the plant.
We discussed and demonstrated how to plant the beans. Because they get a lot of rain in Mwatasi they will plant the beans in March with a plan to harvest in July and August. We marked the hoe at 50 cm and 9 cm and discussed the fact that 9 cm was the width of one’s fist. Ibrahim demonstrated how to clip the weeds and place them in rows 50 cm apart. He then dug a row (trench) with the corner of the hoe and showed how to place the bean seeds 9 cm apart, and then how to place one cap of fertilizer (NPK) between the bean seeds. They said that they usually planted two bean seeds per hole, and that they were 15 cm apart.
Photo link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21557421@N08/sets/72157604580600254/detail/
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Tungamalenga - 4th CVP visit
Partner: Shepherd of the Valley, Apple Valley, Minn.
Wed., January 21, 2009
Pastor: Naftal Nga’amilo
Today the group of eight from Shepherd of the Valley (SOTV) was at Tungamalenga:
· We viewed the corn plot and the plot where beans will be planted
· We reviewed the record book, it was very complete
· We explained the improved farming practices that are being introduced
o Minimum tillage
o Use of hybrid seed
o Proper fertilization
o Weeding
o Pest control
Because the group from SOTV was meeting with others in the congregation we met with a representative group under the tree in the courtyard.
We reviewed the corn planting which occurred on December 15. The rows were about 65 cm apart, and there was an average of 37.5 cm between plants in a row. Seeds which did not germinate were not replanted since there has been little rain, and the replanted seed would not have germinated. The last date to replant corn is January 15 in order for the replanted seed to germinate, grow and reach maturity. The first weeding took place on December 31, and the field looked very clean.
We discussed the importance of weeding regularly, and clipping the weeds off just below the surface. Lack of weeding, resulting in competition from the weeds has the greatest negative impact on yield.
They have noticed some insects on the corn. They were given a bottle of insecticide to spray on the corn.
We discussed how to make the second application of fertilizer to the corn. Use two bottle caps per plant, and keep the fertilizer 5 cm away from the plant.
We marked the hoe at 50 cm and 9 cm. We demonstrated how to clip the weeds and place the residue in 50 cm rows. We demonstrated how to dig holes 9 cm apart between the rows of residue. We explained how to put one bean seed and one cap of fertilizer in each hole, keeping the fertilizer 5 cm away from the seed. We emphasized that they should use all the fertilizer allocated for this plot. If there is any left over, they should broadcast it over the bean plot. They will plant the beans during the first week in February if there has been enough rain and moisture in the soil to allow for germination.
This CVP site is the only one that will have a rice plot. Because of the lack of moisture they have moved the plot planned for rice to a lower area near the river. This will allow for irrigation of the rice. We were shown to the proposed rice plot and the nursery where the rice seedlings were about 3 inches tall. They will transplant the seedlings once there is enough moisture.
Photo link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21557421@N08/sets/72157604424500182/detail/
Wed., January 21, 2009
Pastor: Naftal Nga’amilo
Today the group of eight from Shepherd of the Valley (SOTV) was at Tungamalenga:
· We viewed the corn plot and the plot where beans will be planted
· We reviewed the record book, it was very complete
· We explained the improved farming practices that are being introduced
o Minimum tillage
o Use of hybrid seed
o Proper fertilization
o Weeding
o Pest control
Because the group from SOTV was meeting with others in the congregation we met with a representative group under the tree in the courtyard.
We reviewed the corn planting which occurred on December 15. The rows were about 65 cm apart, and there was an average of 37.5 cm between plants in a row. Seeds which did not germinate were not replanted since there has been little rain, and the replanted seed would not have germinated. The last date to replant corn is January 15 in order for the replanted seed to germinate, grow and reach maturity. The first weeding took place on December 31, and the field looked very clean.
We discussed the importance of weeding regularly, and clipping the weeds off just below the surface. Lack of weeding, resulting in competition from the weeds has the greatest negative impact on yield.
They have noticed some insects on the corn. They were given a bottle of insecticide to spray on the corn.
We discussed how to make the second application of fertilizer to the corn. Use two bottle caps per plant, and keep the fertilizer 5 cm away from the plant.
We marked the hoe at 50 cm and 9 cm. We demonstrated how to clip the weeds and place the residue in 50 cm rows. We demonstrated how to dig holes 9 cm apart between the rows of residue. We explained how to put one bean seed and one cap of fertilizer in each hole, keeping the fertilizer 5 cm away from the seed. We emphasized that they should use all the fertilizer allocated for this plot. If there is any left over, they should broadcast it over the bean plot. They will plant the beans during the first week in February if there has been enough rain and moisture in the soil to allow for germination.
This CVP site is the only one that will have a rice plot. Because of the lack of moisture they have moved the plot planned for rice to a lower area near the river. This will allow for irrigation of the rice. We were shown to the proposed rice plot and the nursery where the rice seedlings were about 3 inches tall. They will transplant the seedlings once there is enough moisture.
Photo link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21557421@N08/sets/72157604424500182/detail/
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