The recent unpredictable rainfall patterns have posed significant challenges for farmers, particularly in maximizing yields during the minor season. To address this, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) has taken the initiative to educate farmers on how to make smarter decisions regarding weather patterns to improve crop production. As part of this effort, farmers in the Techiman North District participated in field demonstrations at Asuyie, aimed at showcasing practical agricultural technologies.
For the demonstration, maize varieties selected were Grotto, Omankwa; Mesidan, Oba 98; Akonkonti Road, Omankwa; and Buoyam S.H.S, Oba 98. Fertilizer was applied at different times across the locations: Grotto on 22/10/2019, Mesidan on 24/10/2019, Akonkonti Road on 22/10/2019, and Buoyam S.H.S on 25/10/2019.
The demonstrations were deemed successful as all participants expressed interest in the technologies used and committed to adopting these practices in the next farming season.
However, challenges arose during the process. Securing suitable land near the roadside for demonstrations was difficult, and poor germination rates, particularly with hybrid maize seeds, were observed. Additionally, high pest attacks, including crickets, millipedes, and fall armyworms, occurred due to the grass cover on the fields. Despite these setbacks, the demonstrations helped farmers better understand and appreciate new agricultural technologies.
