RÉPUBLIQUE DU CAMEROUN Paix – Travail – Patrie MINISTÈRE DE L'AGRICULTURE ET DU DÉVELOPPEMENT RURAL SECRÉTARIAT GÉNÉRAL DIRECTION DES ORGANISATIONS PROFESSIONNELLES AGRICOLES ET DE L'APPUI AUX EXPLOITATIONS AGRICOLES SOUS-DIRECTION DE LA VULGARISATION AGRICOLE
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REPUBLIC OF CAMEROON Peace-Work-Fatherland MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT SECRETARIAT GENERAL DEPARTMENT OF PROFESSIONAL AGRICULTURAL ORGANISATIONS AND SUPPORT TO FARM ENTERPRISES SUB-DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION
# TECHNICAL AND ECONOMIC DATA # SHEET FOR GRAIN MAIZE # PRODUCTION AND POST-PRODUCTION
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October 2024
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OBJECTIVE... 3
I - GENERAL INFORMATION... 3
II - TECHNICAL ITINERARY... 3
II.1. Land or plot selection... 3
II.2. Soil preparation... 3
b. Clearing... 4
c. Ploughing... 4
II.3. Sowing... 4
II.4. Crop maintenance... 4
II.4.1. Weed control... 4
II.4.2. Ridging... 5
II.4.3. Fertilisation... 5
II.4.4. Insect pest control treatments... 6
II.5. Harvesting... 6
II.6. Post-harvest operations... 6
III - PROVISIONAL OPERATING ACCOUNT (01 HA)... 7
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# OBJECTIVE
This technical data sheet is designed to help producers master the technical procedures needed to increase maize productivity and production. At national level, this tool will help to mitigate the effects of food crisis and limit imports. It is also a support and reference tool for extension workers and rural advisers in their efforts to build producers' capacities.
# I - GENERAL INFORMATION
Maize (Zea mays) is one of the most widely grown cereals in all regions of Cameroon and is the main staple food for the population. The West, North-West, Adamawa and North regions are the major production basins. It is grown for human and animal consumption, and as a raw material for brewing, chemical and biochemical, textile, and other industries.). Good maize yields can only be achieved by following the proper technical itinerary. In general, maize should be grown in an area where there is not at least 500 mm of rainfall during the production cycle, with temperature ranging between 18 and 30°C, and a soil pH is between 4.3 and 8.5.
# II - TECHNICAL ITINERARY
The technical itinerary include each of the steps below. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is recommended for each stage.
II.1. Land or plot selection
The plot intended for maize production should meet appropriate conditions. Globally, the plot should be easily accessible.
Maize can be produced on all soils except those that are too sandy or poorly drained. Preference should be given to silt-clay, sandy-clay or gravel soils.
From an agronomic point of view, maize is a demanding plant and shady, flood-prone and steeply sloping areas should be avoided. The soil must be fertile and naturally well drained. It requires minerals (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium).
However, for an optimal use of inputs, it is advisable to carry out a soil analysis beforehand in order to draw up a better fertilisation plan.
II.2. Soil preparation
Land preparation is carried out carefully to ensure optimal quantity and quality of the final product. This comprises three stages:
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a. Logging