The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has advised farmers to complete any planting
The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has advised farmers to complete any planting, even of traditional grains and sunflower that are normally planted at the end of the season, before a prolonged dry spell affects the country.
This follows the recent advisory from the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) that the whole country, except the extreme northern parts, will experience reduced rainfall from Friday 19 January to Friday 2 February 2024.
According to the MSD, the dry spell is caused by winds from the southeast coast that are strengthening over the east coast of Southern Africa. These winds will converge with the northerly flow currently prevailing over Zimbabwe, resulting in localized heavy rains and thunderstorms on Thursday, 18 January 2024.
However, from Friday 19 January 2024, the south-easterly winds will further strengthen and drive moisture northward, leading to mostly sunny and hot conditions from Sunday 21 January 2024, with periodic bouts of cooling winds from the southeast.
The MSD has warned farmers to watch out for the windy and mild conditions on Thursday 18 January 2024, and to harvest water wherever and whenever possible, more so on that day.
Farmers should ensure adequate moisture is available to germinate their crops, as the dry spell may affect the growth and yield of their plants. They should also utilise this "window" for fertiliser application, much needed weeding or herbiciding, spraying for pests and diseases, and other crop management practices that can enhance their productivity and resilience.
The MSD has assured the public that it will provide official weather updates through its platforms, as there may be a change in the length of the mid-season dry spell.
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