Farmers should choose tobacco varieties which are tolerant to climatic conditions prevalent in their areas, an official has said.
In an interview with New Ziana, Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) public affairs officer, Chelesani Tsarwe said selection of climate resilient tobacco varieties go a long way in improving farmers’ yields.
She said farmers should choose tobacco varieties that are more tolerant to heat, drought, or other climatic conditions prevalent in their region and also consult with local agricultural extension services or research institutions for recommendations.
“The lesson learnt from the El- Nino induced weather pattern is improving the yield of tobacco and making it more resilient to climate variations. Going forward, there are several climate-proofing mechanisms that the Board will advocate for, and which growers can also adopt,” she
said.
Tsarwe said some of the climate resilient strategies which farmers can adopt include drip irrigation, mulching and staying informed about climate forecasts.
“Farmers can optimize irrigation practices by using techniques such as drip irrigation or precision irrigation systems. These methods can reduce water usage and ensure efficient water delivery to the plants.
They can also apply organic mulch, like straw or compost, around the base of tobacco plants. Mulching helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weed growth, and moderates soil temperature,” she said.’
She also urged growers to stay informed about climate forecasts, weather patterns, and climate-related risks in their farming area.
“This information can help the grower plan and adapt cultivation practices accordingly,” she said.
New Ziana
