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With the start of the planting season, the Ministerio de Agricultura y Ganadería (MAG), through the Centro Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria y Forestal (CENTA), is providing technical recommendations to staple grain producers to optimize soil use, conserve moisture, and improve crop productivity.
If the soil has sufficient moisture, “at that point, the farmer should decide to begin planting their crop. We emphasize corn because it is planted at this time and is important for the population’s food security”, said Francisco Torres, head of the Technology Transfer and Extension Management at CENTA.
The specialist detailed the following recommendations:
• Avoid burning crop residue during land preparation and leave it scattered on the surface, as this promotes water infiltration and helps conserve soil moisture.
• Check soil moisture before planting by digging holes 25 to 30 cm deep, taking a soil sample, and pressing it with your hand. If it retains its shape, it indicates adequate moisture.
• Implement cover crops or green manures such as jack bean or velvet bean, which contribute to improving soil fertility and controlling weeds.
• Carry out proper fertilization, combining organic fertilizers with complete-formula fertilizers at recommended doses, applied at planting time or 8 to 10 days later, incorporating them into the soil for better absorption.
• Build reservoirs to collect rainwater, useful for preparing mixtures for foliar applications.
• Apply foliar fertilizers during cooler hours, reducing the risk of water stress and micronutrient deficiencies.
Avoid completely removing weeds, as bare soil loses moisture more quickly.
Constantly monitor crops to detect pests or diseases early, especially during droughts.
The MAG reminds farmers to implement sustainable agricultural practices to strengthen resilience to climate variability.
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