A Guide to Conservation Agriculture in Zimbabwe - Canadian ...

Promoting Conservation Agriculture Among Farmers
section ONE
In addition, rotating crops prevents certain types of weeds
from multiplying. During the course of the season, timely
weeding ensures weeds are destroyed before they can
produce any seeds. In this way, the seed bank is reduced
and fewer weeds appear in subsequent seasons.
Conserves soil moisture
The build up of organic matter and improvement of soil
structure leads to better water infiltration into the soil
through pores and cracks. This increases the amount of
moisture for the crops.
Reduces soil erosion
By continuously improving the management of soil and
water resources, erosion and desertification of farm land
is reduced, the water table rises and there is less river
siltation. In Natural Region II where water conservation is
less important, the prevention of soil erosion is an
important benefit of conservation agriculture.
1.7 Implementing conservation
agriculture in zimbabwe
Farming land in Zimbabwe is divided into five distinct
agro-ecological zones, also known as Natural Regions I-
V (see map below), with varying climatic conditions, soil
types, and social and economic features. Conservation
agriculture practices have been implemented successfully
in zones II, III, IV and V. A number of organisations
promoting conservation agriculture operate mainly in the
semi-arid zones III and IV where over 80% of smallholder
farming land is located. However proponents of
conservation agriculture have demonstrated over many
years that it is also highly effective in Zone II, and in
addition recommendation packages have been developed
for Zone V. Thus it potentially has widespread application,
with variations, throughout much of the country.
Reduces production costs
Relatively inexpensive equipment is needed for reduced
tillage options and the wear and tear on equipment
decreases too because the area tilled is smaller than in
conventional ploughing. Less energy (whether human
labour or draught power) is used in tilling the land. Over
time weeding requires less time as weeds are reduced in
number each year. And as noted above smaller quantities
of basal and top dressing are required.
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Farming for the Future
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