(a) Discuss the cultivation of maize under the following headings. (i) soil requirements; (ii) method of propagation; (iii) spacing; (iv) weed control; (v) ...

Answer Details

(a) (i) Soil requirements: Maize thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter, with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. The soil should be deep enough to allow for good root growth and have adequate nutrients for plant growth. Soil preparation should involve ploughing or tilling to break up compacted soil and remove weeds. (ii) Method of propagation: Maize is propagated by planting seeds directly into the soil. Seeds should be planted at a depth of about 2 to 3 inches, and at a spacing of about 10-15 cm between seeds. (iii) Spacing: Maize plants should be spaced about 60-90 cm apart in rows that are about 75-90 cm apart. This spacing allows for good plant growth and development, and makes it easier to control weeds and harvest the crop. (iv) Weed control: Maize should be kept free of weeds, especially during the early stages of growth, as weeds can compete with the crop for nutrients and water. Weed control can be achieved by hand weeding or using herbicides. Mulching can also be used to suppress weed growth and conserve soil moisture. (v) Two fungal diseases: Two common fungal diseases that affect maize are gray leaf spot and maize streak virus. Gray leaf spot is caused by the fungus Cercospora zeae-maydis and can be controlled by using resistant varieties or applying fungicides. Maize streak virus is transmitted by leafhoppers and can be controlled by using resistant varieties or controlling the leafhopper population. (vi) Harvesting: Maize is ready for harvest when the ears have fully matured and the kernels have turned hard and dry. Harvesting can be done by hand or using a machine, and the ears should be removed from the stalks and dried to prevent mold growth. (b) (i) Production record: A production record is a document that records the quantity and quality of crops or livestock produced on a farm. It includes information such as the type and amount of inputs used, the yield, and any problems encountered during production. (ii) Farm inventory: A farm inventory is a record of all the assets and liabilities of a farm, including land, buildings, equipment, livestock, and supplies. It helps the farmer to keep track of the value of their assets and liabilities, and to plan for the future. (iii) Cash book: A cash book is a record of all the financial transactions on a farm, including income and expenses. It helps the farmer to keep track of their cash flow and to ensure that they have enough money to cover their expenses. (iv) Labour record: A labour record is a document that records the amount of time and wages paid to farm workers. It helps the farmer to keep track of labour costs and to ensure that workers are paid fairly for the work they have done.