A companion planting system for maize originally developed to keep stem borers and striga at bay, has also proved to be successful against the fall armyworm. Scientists from the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (Icipe) in Kenya have found that existing push-pull companion planting technology could help smallholder…
Monoculture crop production has been associated with an increase in pests and soil-borne disease. Using crop rotation and companion planting can help to break disease cycles and improve soil health. Crop rotation is one of the most basic principles of vegetable production and should always be practised. It’s best described…
Once the soil and beds have been prepared, you can begin sowing seeds and planting seedlings. Organic grower Jane Griffiths shares her tips and techniques. A vegetable farmer’s livelihood depends on a good harvest, so it’s important to ensure seeds and seedlings have the best possible chance of survival. Planting…
Pest insects destroyed an estimated 18% to 26% of annual crop production worldwide in 2011, according to research from the USDA’s Animal Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS). Most losses (13% to16%) occurred in the field, pre-harvest, and were heaviest in developing countries. That’s us. Synthetic chemicals have been used for…
