Post planting operations are the operations carried out after planting. It creates a good condition and proper maintenance for plants growth.
Post planting operations include the following:
(a) Thinning.
(b) Supplying.
(c) Irrigation/watering.
(d) Use of manure and fertilizer.
(e) Mulching.
(f) Weeding.
THINNING
This is the removal of excess, weak or not well positioned seedlings from a seedbed after the viable seeds have germinated.
SUPPLYING
This is the replanting of propagative materials where they fail to germinate, especially when no germination trial was carried out before planting. Replanting should be done as soon as possible.
IRRIGATION OR WATERING
Irrigation is the artificial watering of farmland especially during dry season.
USE OF MANURE & FERTILIZER
This is the application of organic manure such as poultry droppings, cow dung and green manure or inorganic manure (made from chemicals) to the soil to maintain soil fertility.
MULCHING
This is the covering of the surface of the soil with a layer of clean dry vegetative part of plant such as grasses or leaves.
WEEDING
This is the removal of unwanted plants (weed) from the farm. It is done for the following reasons:
1. To avoid competition for nutrients moisture and sunlight between crops and weed.
2. To avoid overcrowding in order to create enough space for the crop
3. To prevent the build-up of pest and pathogens which may destroy the crops.