Mlowa - CVP Visit Report Feb 5-2013

2013 CVP Companion Village Project 4th Visit Year Four February 5, 2013 Village Mlowa Pastor Naboth Chaula Companion Christus Victor Lutheran Church Attendees 03 Weather for the past month Hot Ag Institute staff Pongolan and Venance Introduction It was hot as we drove down to Mlowa. Crops looked better this time as compared to the other times we visit the site. We met a small audience of only three people; the pastor and two church leaders. All the people were gone to the fields which are located far away from the village. The pastor told us that members come home on Saturday to be able to attend church services and leave to the fields again on Sunday evening. Purpose of the visit • To observe the progress of the plot, deliver thionex insecticide and solve any arising problems concerning improved farming practices. Topics 1. Review of the handouts,  4th visit instructions • Discussion about germination, Replanting and Pest control • Weeding after planting • Monthly weeding after tasseling 2. Demonstration on second fertilizer application on corn There was demonstration on planting and fertilization of beans on rows 30cm apart and 10cm between plants. Also there was a demonstration on how do second applications of fertilizer in corn 3. Insecticide Application. We instructed them on how to apply the insecticide on both corn and beans and the recommended rates to apply 4. Delivery. Most of the items were delivered before except the thionex insecticide which was delivered on the day of the visit. Corn and Bean Plots Discussion Corn was planted in two splits at the end of January 2012. The plants looked good and well-spaced. Beans will be planted in March. Rice was not planted at all. The pastor said they didn’t get land to plant rice but was optimistic that they will be able to grow rice in the next season since they have enough time to be securing land. Questions/Comments from Audience There were no questions or comments from the attendees. Conclusion This parish has a very narrow chance of performing any better in the production of corn, beans and rice because of the drought which hits the area frequently and lack of adequate irrigated land.