PRODUCE ANNUAL CROPS

GENERAL AGRICULTURE LEVEL 4

UNIT CODE: 0811 551 02 A

UNIT DURATION: 100 HOURS

Relationship to Occupational Standards

This unit addresses the Unit of Competency: Produce Annual Crops

Unit Description
This unit specifies the competencies required to produce annual crops. It involves preparing
planting materials, preparing crop seedbed, planting annual crops, managing annual crops
harvesting annual crop, and processing annual crops products.

LEARNING OUTCOME 1: PREPARE PLANTING MATERIAL

Planting materials are any plant part used to propagate or establish a new plant. Examples
include seeds, seedlings, cuttings, slips, suckers, crowns, and splits.
Seedlings are young plants grown from seeds, typically transplanted into the field.
Seeds are fertilized ovules of a plant, typically used for sowing to grow new plants. Must be
viable and healthy.

Assemble land preparation tools and equipment

Objective: Equip trainees with knowledge on various land preparation tools, their types, and
how to properly assemble and prepare them for use in annual crop production.

Manual Hand Tools

Tool Description Use
Sharp-edged hand tool with a heavy metal Cutting down trees, branches, or splitting
Axes
blade and wooden/metal handle. wood during land clearing.
Machete-like cutting tool with a broad Cutting shrubs, grass, or small branches;
Panga
blade. clearing bushy areas.
A long-handled tool with metal or plastic Collecting debris like leaves, grass, and
Rake
tines. small stones after slashing or ploughing.
Cutting tall grass and weeds manually
Slasher Long-bladed cutting tool.
during initial land clearing.

Tillage Tools/Equipment/Machinery
 Tool/Equipment Description Use
Include manual and mechanized
Tillage General category for soil
tools used to till and improve soil
tools/equipment/machinery preparation implements.
structure.
Hand tool with strong Breaking up soil clumps and
Fork Jembe
prongs. digging; suitable for small plots.
Breaks down large soil clods after
Harrows Tool with spikes or discs.
ploughing for a finer seedbed.
Hand tool with a flat Digging, turning soil, weeding, or
Hoe
blade. mixing fertilizers.
Engine-powered Pulls implements like ploughs,
Tractor machinery with various harrows, and trailers for mechanized
attachments. land preparation.

Specialized equipment and implements

Tool/Equipment Description Use

Mechanical cutter with rotating Cutting grass or cover crops uniformly
Mower
blades. across a field.
Tractor-mounted rotating tillage Crushes soil clods and mixes organic
Rotavator
tool. matter to make fine seedbeds.
One-wheeled cart for transporting Carries soil, manure, tools, and harvests
Wheelbarrow
materials. around the farm.
Tractor-drawn implement that Prepares planting beds especially for root
Ridgers
forms ridges and furrows. crops like potatoes.
Mouldboard Traditional plough with curved Turns and cuts soil, burying weeds and
Plough metal blades. residues. Good for deep tillage.
Used for ploughing in hard, stony, or
Disc Plough Curved discs mounted on a frame.
sticky soils.
Secondary tillage implement to break
Disc Harrow Series of rotating discs on a frame.
soil clods and level the field.
Uses of land preparation tools and equipment

Understanding the use of each tool is essential for:

 Efficient land preparation suited to the type of soil, topography, and crop.
 Time and labor management, especially in smallholder or mechanized farming.
 Tool safety and maintenance, reducing wear and accidents.

Maintenance of land preparation tools and equipment

Involves regular care and servicing to ensure the tools and machines used for land preparation
remain in good working condition, operate efficiently, and last longer. Below is a brief overview
you can use in training or documentation.

Objective:
To ensure all land preparation tools and equipment remain functional, safe, and efficient through
regular maintenance practices.

A. Types of Tools and Equipment

 Manual Tools: Hoes, spades, rakes, mattocks

 Animal-drawn Implements: Ploughs, harrows
 Mechanical Equipment: Tractors, rotary tillers, disc ploughs

B. Routine Maintenance Practices

1. Cleaning:
o Clean all tools after use to remove soil, plant material, and moisture.
o Prevents rusting and pest infestation.
2. Lubrication:
o Regularly oil moving parts (especially on mechanical equipment).
o Prevents wear and tear.
3. Sharpening:
o Keep blades (hoes, ploughs) sharp for efficiency.
o Use files or grinding tools.
4. Tightening and Adjustments:
o Check and tighten bolts, nuts, and fasteners.
o Adjust settings for optimum performance.
5. Storage:
o Store tools in dry, shaded areas.
o Hang or arrange tools properly to avoid damage or injury.
6. Inspection and Repair:
o Inspect regularly for cracks, wear, or damage.
o Replace worn-out parts or repair as needed.

C. Maintenance Schedule Example

Tool/Equipment Frequency of Maintenance Task
Hoe/Spade After every use Clean, dry, oil
Tractor Weekly/Monthly Check oil, filters, tires
Disc Plough After use/Monthly Sharpen, clean, inspect discs

D. Safety Considerations

 Always wear gloves and protective gear during maintenance.

 Ensure machinery is turned off and cooled before servicing.

Obtain planting materials

This step focuses on sourcing and selecting suitable materials used for crop establishment to
ensure healthy, vigorous crop growth and high productivity.

Objectives of Obtaining Planting Materials

 Ensure high germination rate

 Promote uniform crop establishment
 Prevent pest and disease spread
 Achieve high yield and quality produce

Sources of quality planting materials

1. Certified seed companies

o Offer tested seeds with high purity and viability
o Comply with phytosanitary standards
2. Government research institutions
o Supply breeder and foundation seeds
o Distribute clean vegetative planting materials
3. Agricultural extension services
o Connect farmers with approved seed suppliers
4. Registered nurseries
o Provide healthy, disease-free seedlings
5. On-farm multiplication
o Farmers save part of previous harvest for next planting (suitable only if quality is
assured)

Selection criteria for planting materials

 Purity: Free from weeds or other crop seeds

 Viability: High germination potential
 Healthy, it should be free from pests, diseases, and mechanical damage
 Adaptability: Suited to the local agro-ecological zone
 Varietal traits: Disease resistance, maturity period, yield potential
Procedures for obtaining planting materials

1. Identify crop to be grown and suitable propagation method.

2. Determine quantity of materials needed based on land area and spacing.
3. Select a reliable source based on certification or recommendation.
4. Inspect planting materials before purchase or use.
5. Store properly before planting (e.g., cool dry place for seeds, moist conditions for slips).

Types of planting materials

These are materials used to propagate (grow) new plants. They can be sexual (using seeds) or
asexual/vegetative (using plant parts like stems or roots).

Seeds and Seedlings

 Seeds: Dried plant embryos used for sexual reproduction.

o Examples: Maize, beans, sunflower.
 Seedlings: Young plants grown from seeds and later transplanted.
o Exa mples: Tomato, cabbage, onion seedlings.

Splits

 Definition: Portions of a clump or bunch of a plant divided and replanted.

o Common in: Napier grass, lemongrass, and some perennial grasses.

Crowns

 Definition: The top part of a plant where stem and roots meet, often used in pineapple.
o Example: Pineapple crowns (leafy top part) used for propagation.

Slips

 Definition: Small plantlets that form on the stem or base of the fruit, especially in
pineapple.
o Example: Pineapple slips are used as planting material.

Cuttings

 Definition: Portions of stem, root, or leaf cut and planted to grow a new plant.
o Examples: Cassava stem cuttings, sweet potato vine cuttings.

Suckers

 Definition: Shoots that grow from the base of the main plant.
o Examples: Banana suckers, arrowroot (nduma) suckers.
Vines

 Definition: Long, trailing stems used for propagation.

o Examples: Sweet potato vines, pumpkin vines.

Stem tubers

 Definition: Thickened, underground stems that store food and can sprout new plants.
o Examples: Irish potatoes (potato tubers), yams.

LEARNING OUTCOME 2: PREPARE CROP SEEDBED

Land clearing

 Definition: Removal of vegetation, debris, or obstacles from land to prepare it for

farming.

Importance of Land Clearing

 Enables easy tillage operations.

 Helps control pests and diseases.
 Improves soil aeration and water infiltration.
 Enhances visibility of stones/stumps that may damage equipment.
 Promotes healthy crop growth by reducing competition.

Methods of land clearing

Method Description Example Tools/Inputs

Mechanical Use of machines to remove large vegetation, Tractor, bulldozer, mower
clearing trees, or stumps.
Fire (controlled), safety
Controlled
Intentional burning of bush/grass to clear land. equipment
burning
Glyphosate, knapsack
Chemical clearing Use of herbicides to kill and dry vegetation. sprayer

Mattock, hoe, grub axe

Grubbing Uprooting stumps or deep-rooted vegetation.
Goats, sheep, fencing (if
Grazing Allowing livestock to feed on weeds and bush.
needed)

1. Manual clearing

Use of hand tools such as slashers and pangas to cut or remove vegetation.
Benefits

i. Cost-effective

 Requires low capital investment compared to machinery.

 Ideal for smallholder farmers with limited resources.

ii. Environmentally friendly

 Minimizes soil disturbance and erosion.

 Preserves soil structure and biodiversity.

iii. Suitable for small or irregular plots

 Effective in uneven or steep terrains where machines cannot access.

 Best for small farms or gardens with obstacles.

iv. Selective clearing

 Allows the farmer to preserve beneficial plants or trees.

 Reduces unnecessary removal of cover vegetation.

v. Safer for soil health

 Reduces compaction, as there is no heavy machinery pressure on the soil.

 Helps maintain natural soil fertility and microorganisms.

2. Mechanical clearing

This is the use of machines to remove large vegetation, trees, or stumps. Examples of such
machines are tractor, bulldozer and mowers

Benefits

i. Time-saving and efficient

 Covers large areas quickly, reducing labor time.

 Ideal for commercial farms or large-scale operations

ii. High productivity

 Enables rapid transition from land preparation to planting.

 Increases farm operation efficiency and scale.

iii. Consistent and uniform clearing

  Produces a more uniform seedbed, enhancing crop establishment.
 Ensures thorough removal of vegetation and stumps.

iv. Reduces human labor requirements

 Minimizes the need for large labor forces.

 Useful where labor is scarce or expensive

v. Better for hard or rooted terrain

 Can clear tough vegetation, tree stumps, and rocky soils that manual methods cannot
handle easily.
 Facilitates deep tillage and soil inversion.

3. Controlled burning

Controlled burning (also called prescribed burning) is a land management technique where fire
is intentionally set under controlled conditions to clear vegetation, crop residues, or invasive
species from a specific area. It is carefully planned and managed to ensure the fire stays within
designated boundaries and achieves specific environmental or agricultural objectives without
harming people, property, or the ecosystem.

Benefits of Controlled Burning:

i. Weed and Pest Control

Destroys invasive plant species and pests that may harm crops or native vegetation.

ii. Soil Fertility Improvement

Ash from burnt vegetation adds nutrients like potassium and phosphorus back into the soil.

iii. Clears Land for Cultivation or Grazing

Makes it easier to prepare the land for planting or to improve grazing fields.

iv. Reduces Risk of Wildfires

By removing dry vegetation that could fuel uncontrolled wildfires.

v. Stimulates New Growth

Promotes regeneration of native plants and grasses that thrive after fire.

vi. Cost-Effective Method

Less expensive compared to mechanical land clearing methods.

vii. Maintains Ecosystem Balance

Mimics natural fire cycles that some ecosystems depend on for renewal.

4. Chemical clearing

Chemical Clearing Method of Land Clearing

Definition:

Chemical clearing is a land clearing method that involves the use of herbicides or chemical
substances to kill unwanted vegetation such as weeds, shrubs, or trees. It is commonly used in
agriculture, forestry, and land development to prepare land for planting or construction.

Benefits of Chemical Clearing:

i. Effective Weed Control

Kills a wide range of unwanted plants, including deep-rooted or hard-to-remove species.

ii. Time-Saving

Faster than manual or mechanical methods, especially for large areas.

iii. Less Labor-Intensive

Requires fewer workers compared to manual clearing.

iv. Minimal Soil Disturbance

Since there’s no digging or plowing, soil structure and beneficial organisms are preserved.

v. Selective Application

Some herbicides can target specific types of vegetation without harming desired crops.

vi. Useful in Difficult Terrain

Can be applied easily in rocky, steep, or otherwise hard-to-reach areas.

5. Grazzing
Grazing Method of Land Clearing

Definition:

Grazing as a method of land clearing involves using domesticated animals—such as goats,

sheep, or cattle—to feed on unwanted vegetation, weeds, or brush. Over time, the animals
naturally reduce the plant cover, helping to prepare the land for agriculture or other uses.

Benefits of Grazing in Land Clearing:

i. Eco-Friendly and Natural

No chemicals or machinery used; mimics natural ecological processes.

ii. Cost-Effective

Lowers the need for herbicides, fuel, or labor-intensive clearing methods.

iii. Provides Additional Benefits

Animals produce manure, which improves soil fertility.

iv. Controls Invasive Plants

Goats especially are effective in clearing tough weeds and shrubs.

v. Soil Health Improvement

Light grazing helps aerate the soil and improve nutrient cycling.

vi. Low Impact on Terrain

Ideal for sloped or uneven land where machinery may not be safe or practical.

vii. Dual Purpose Use

You get land cleared and animal products (milk, meat, wool) at the same time.

6. Grubbing

Grubbing Method of Land Clearing

Definition:
Grubbing is a land clearing method that involves the manual or mechanical removal of roots,
stumps, and underground parts of plants after the surface vegetation has been cut or cleared.
It is usually done after felling trees or cutting brush, and it prepares the land for cultivation,
construction, or development.

Benefits of Grubbing in Land Clearing

i. Removes Deep Roots and Stumps

Ensures complete clearing by removing underground plant material that could regrow.

ii. Prepares Land for Cultivation or Building

Leaves the land clean and smooth, ready for plowing, planting, or construction.

iii. Reduces Regrowth

Prevents weeds and woody plants from coming back quickly.

iv. Improves Drainage

Removing stumps and roots opens the soil, improving water flow and reducing waterlogging.

v. Helps Control Pests and Diseases

Eliminates hiding spots for pests and diseases that might live in stumps or roots.

vi. Allows for Long-Term Land Use

Provides a more permanent solution compared to methods that leave roots behind.

Tillage operations

Definition of Terms

 Tillage: Mechanical manipulation of soil to prepare it for planting.

 Ploughing: Turning over the soil using implements.
 Harrowing: Breaking soil clods and smoothing soil.
 Ridging: Forming raised rows for planting.

Importance of Tillage

 Improves soil aeration and drainage.

 Helps incorporate organic matter and fertilizers.
 Destroys weeds and pest habitats.
 Enhances root penetration and crop establishment.
Types of Tillage

Primary Tillage

Definition:

Primary tillage is the initial deep cutting and turning of the soil after land clearing, usually
done with implements like ploughs or disc harrows. Its purpose is to break up hard soil, bury
crop residues or weeds, and prepare the land for secondary tillage or planting.

Benefits of Primary Tillage:

i. Loosens the Soil

Breaks compacted soil, improving root penetration and water infiltration.

ii. Improves Soil Aeration

Exposes soil to air, enhancing microbial activity and nutrient availability.

iii. Incorporates Crop Residues and Manure

Helps decompose organic material and mix nutrients into the soil.

iv. Kills Weeds

Buries or uproots weeds, reducing competition with crops.

v. Enhances Water Absorption

Reduces runoff by opening the soil structure, allowing better water retention.

vi. Prepares a Good Seedbed

Lays the foundation for secondary tillage and uniform seed planting.

Secondary tillage

Secondary tillage is the follow-up operation after primary tillage, aimed at refining the soil
condition. It involves shallower and finer operations like leveling, breaking soil clods,
controlling weeds, and preparing a fine seedbed for planting.

Benefits of Secondary Tillage:

i. Breaks Soil Clods

Crushes large lumps left after primary tillage, giving finer soil texture.

ii. Levels the Soil

Smoothens the surface, making it easier for planting and irrigation.

iii. Weed Control

Removes or uproots weeds that may have sprouted after primary tillage.

iv. Improves Soil Moisture Conservation

Helps close large cracks and reduces moisture loss from the soil.

v. Prepares Fine Seedbed

Ensures good seed-to-soil contact, improving germination.

Tertiary Tillage

Definition:

Tertiary tillage is the final and lightest soil preparation stage carried out just before or
during planting. It involves shallow, light operations to ensure ideal conditions for seed
placement, germination, and early growth.

Benefits of Tertiary Tillage:

i. Creates Fine, Smooth Seedbed

Ensures seeds are sown at the correct depth and with good soil contact.

ii. Enhances Germination

Provides an ideal environment for uniform seed sprouting and seedling development.

iii. Final Weed Removal

Removes any last weeds that may compete with young crops.

iv. Moisture Conservation

Light tilling seals soil surface, reducing evaporation before planting.

v. Supports Precision Planting

Helps in accurate row-making, furrow preparation, and seed placement.

Zero / Minimum Tillage

Definition:

 Zero tillage (also called no-till farming) is a conservation farming method where the
soil is not disturbed at all before planting. Seeds are planted directly into undisturbed
soil using special equipment.
 Minimum tillage involves very limited soil disturbance, just enough to plant the crop
and manage weeds—less intense than conventional tillage but more than zero till.

Benefits of Zero / Minimum Tillage:

i. Soil Conservation

Prevents erosion by keeping soil structure intact and protecting it with crop residues.

ii. Moisture Retention

Reduces evaporation, helping to conserve soil moisture—especially important in dry areas.

iii. Improves Soil Health

Encourages microbial activity, earthworms, and natural nutrient cycles.

iv. Reduces Cost and Labor

Saves fuel, time, and effort since fewer passes with machinery are needed.

v. Carbon Sequestration

Leaves plant residues on the surface, which helps store carbon and reduce greenhouse gases.

vi. Limits Soil Compaction

Fewer tractor passes reduce damage to soil structure.

Minimum Tillage

Definition:
Minimum tillage is a reduced soil cultivation method where only the part of the soil
necessary for planting is disturbed, while the rest remains untouched. It aims to reduce the
number and intensity of tillage operations while still preparing a suitable seedbed.

It falls between conventional tillage (which involves multiple, deep operations) and zero tillage
(which involves no soil disturbance).

Benefits of Minimum Tillage

i. Reduces Soil Erosion

Less disturbance means soil structure and cover are preserved.

ii. Conserves Moisture

Limits water loss through evaporation by keeping plant residues on the surface.

iii. Saves Time and Labor

Fewer tillage operations save energy, fuel, and working hours.

iv. Improves Soil Health

Encourages earthworms and beneficial microbes due to less disruption.

v. Reduces Cost

Lower machinery use and fuel consumption reduce production costs.

vi. Controls Weeds and Pests

Surface residue suppresses weeds and breaks pest life cycles.

Soil conservation measures

Soil conservation refers to practices and techniques used to prevent soil erosion, degradation,
and nutrient loss, ensuring the land remains productive and sustainable for agriculture and the
environment.

Here’s a breakdown of the soil conservation measures you've listed (Sections 2.5.1 to 2.5.8),
with definitions and benefits for each:
2.5.1 Contour Planting

Definition: Planting crops along the natural contours (curved lines) of a slope rather than up and
down.
Benefits:

 Slows water runoff

 Reduces soil erosion
 Helps water infiltrate the soil

2.5.2 Terraces

Definition: Flat, step-like platforms constructed on slopes to reduce the speed of water flow.
Benefits:

 Minimizes erosion on steep land

 Improves water retention
 Expands usable farmland on hillsides

2.5.3 Gabions

Definition: Wire mesh cages filled with stones, placed across gullies or slopes to control erosion.
Benefits:

 Slows down water flow

 Prevents gully formation
 Traps sediments and stabilizes slopes

2.5.4 Mulching

Definition: Covering the soil surface with plant material such as leaves, grass, or straw.
Benefits:

 Prevents moisture loss

 Suppresses weed growth
 Reduces surface erosion and improves soil structure
2.5.5 Cover Cropping

Definition: Growing crops (e.g., legumes or grasses) specifically to cover and protect the soil,
especially between main crops.
Benefits:

 Reduces erosion and nutrient loss

 Improves soil fertility and structure
 Suppresses weeds

2.5.6 Minimum Tillage

Definition: Reducing the intensity and frequency of tilling operations to disturb the soil as little
as possible.
Benefits:

 Maintains soil structure

 Reduces erosion and fuel costs
 Conserves moisture and supports soil organisms

2.5.7 Crop Rotation

Definition: Planting different crops in the same field in a planned sequence over time.
Benefits:

 Improves soil fertility

 Breaks AApest and disease cycles
 Reduces nutrient depletion

Intercropping

Definition: Growing two or more crops together in the same field at the same time.
Benefits:

 Reduces soil exposure

 Enhances soil cover and fertility
 Minimizes erosion and maximizes land use

LEARNING OUTCOME 3: PLANT ANNUAL CROPS:

Plant Annual Crops

Sub-topic: Types of Farm Inputs

This lesson focuses on the essential inputs used in planting annual crops. Farm inputs are
materials and resources used to support crop growth and enhance productivity. They can be
organic or inorganic, and their correct selection and use are critical for successful crop
establishment.

Inorganic Fertilizers
These are chemically manufactured substances that provide specific nutrients to crops. They are
used to supplement soil fertility and support vigorous plant growth. Common examples include
DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate), NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium), CAN (Calcium
Ammonium Nitrate), and Urea. Inorganic fertilizers are usually fast-acting and are applied
during land preparation or at planting time.

3.1.1.2 Seeds
Seeds are the most common planting materials for annual crops. They are used for crops that
propagate sexually. Good quality seeds should be viable, free from disease, and suitable for the
local ecological conditions. Examples of annual crops planted using seeds include maize, beans,
cowpeas, millet, sorghum, and sunflower. Farmers should source certified seeds from reputable
suppliers.

Vegetative Propagation Materials

These are plant parts used for asexual propagation. They include vines, suckers, cuttings, tubers,
and slips. Vegetative propagation is common for crops such as cassava (using stem cuttings),
sweet potatoes (using vines), and Irish potatoes (using stem tubers). These materials should be
healthy, disease-free, and taken from mature, productive parent plants.

Manures
Manures are organic substances derived from animal dung, composted plant materials, and other
organic waste. They improve soil structure, enhance microbial activity, and release nutrients
slowly over time. Common types include farmyard manure, compost manure, green manure
(plant material turned into the soil), and poultry manure. While not as concentrated as chemical
fertilizers, manures are vital for sustainable soil fertility management.

Methods of planting annual crops

Planting methods refer to the techniques used to place seeds or planting materials into the soil.
The selection of a planting method is influenced by the type of crop, soil conditions, labor
availability, and farm tools or machinery. Understanding each method's benefits and limitations
helps farmers make informed choices.

Direct Seeding

Direct seeding is the method of sowing seeds directly into the field where the crop will grow
until maturity. It is suitable for many annual crops such as maize, beans, millet, and sorghum.
Advantages:

 Simple and less labor-intensive.

 Faster to implement over large areas.
 Suitable for mechanized planting.

Disadvantages:

 Uneven plant spacing may occur.

 Higher risk of weed competition.
 Germination may be affected by poor soil or moisture conditions.

Transplanting

Transplanting involves raising seedlings in a nursery and later moving them to the main field
when they are strong enough. It is widely used for vegetables like cabbages, onions, tomatoes,
and some herbs.

Advantages:

 Allows for selection of healthy seedlings.

 Ensures uniform spacing and crop establishment.
 Reduces seed wastage.

Disadvantages:

 Labor-intensive and time-consuming.

 Transplanted crops may suffer transplanting shock.
 Requires proper nursery management.

Drilling

Drilling is the method of placing seeds in continuous rows or furrows at regular intervals, either
manually or with a seed drill. It is commonly used for crops like onions, carrots, and cereals.

Advantages:

 Ensures uniform distribution of seeds.

 Facilitates easier weeding and crop management.
 Enhances proper root development due to regular spacing.

Disadvantages:

 Requires more precision in operation.

 Wastage may occur if drills are not well calibrated.
 Not suitable for all crop types.
Broadcasting

Broadcasting involves scattering seeds evenly over the surface of the soil, either manually or
mechanically. It is commonly used for pasture grasses, rice, and cover crops.

Advantages:

 Fast and requires little skill.

 Suitable for covering large areas quickly.
 Low initial cost.

Disadvantages:

 Results in uneven seed distribution.

 Difficult to weed and thin the crops.
 Higher seed rate needed due to wastage.

Hill Planting

In hill planting, 2–3 seeds are sown in small, spaced holes (or “hills”). It is commonly used for
maize, pumpkins, beans, and cucurbits.

Advantages:

 Allows for seed redundancy—if one seed fails, another may germinate.
 Helps in managing plant population.
 Suitable for crops with large seeds.

Disadvantages:

 Labor-intensive, especially in large fields.

 May lead to irregular plant spacing if not done properly.
 Time-consuming when done manually.

Row Planting

Row planting is the method of planting seeds in straight lines with uniform spacing between and
within rows. It is widely practiced for maize, groundnuts, soybeans, and most field crops.

Advantages:

 Facilitates mechanized operations such as weeding, fertilizing, and harvesting.

 Enhances proper air circulation and sunlight exposure.
 Makes monitoring and field management easier.

Disadvantages:
  Time-consuming to lay out rows correctly.
 Requires some skill or use of planting guides.
 May not be suitable for irregularly shaped plots

Planting guide for selected annual crops

1. Wheat

 Ecological Requirements: Cool temperatures (10–24°C), well-drained loam or clay-

loam soils, moderate rainfall (500–1200 mm annually).
 Planting Material & Method: Certified seeds; drilling or broadcasting.
 Spacing & Depth: 20–25 cm between rows; 2–3 cm deep.
 Fertilizer Application:
o Basal: DAP at 100–120 kg/ha at planting.
o Top-dress: CAN or Urea at 60–80 kg/ha during tillering.
 Notes: Avoid waterlogging; weed early.

2. Maize

 Ecological Requirements: Warm temperatures (18–30°C), well-drained fertile soils,

600–1200 mm rainfall.
 Planting Material & Method: Certified hybrid seeds; hill or row planting.
 Spacing & Depth: 75 cm between rows × 25–30 cm between plants; 3–5 cm deep.
 Fertilizer Application:
o Basal: DAP or NPK at 150–200 kg/ha at planting.
o Top-dress: Urea or CAN at 100–150 kg/ha when plants are knee-high.
 Notes: Practice timely weeding and earthing-up.

3. Millet

 Ecological Requirements: Hot and dry climate, low rainfall (300–700 mm), sandy to
loam soils.
 Planting Material & Method: Seeds; row planting or broadcasting.
 Spacing & Depth: 30–45 cm between rows × 10–15 cm within rows; 2–3 cm deep.
 Fertilizer Application:
o Apply 60 kg/ha of NPK during planting.
o Top-dress with CAN at 50 kg/ha if needed.
 Notes: Tolerant to drought; thrives in marginal areas.

4. Sorghum

 Ecological Requirements: Semi-arid areas; 400–700 mm rainfall; tolerates high

temperatures and poor soils.
 Planting Material & Method: Seeds; row or drill planting.
 Spacing & Depth: 60–75 cm between rows × 15–20 cm within rows; 2–4 cm deep.
 Fertilizer Application:
 o DAP at 100 kg/ha at planting.
o Top-dress with Urea at 50 kg/ha during early growth.
 Notes: Ideal for dryland farming; good for mixed cropping.

5. Beans

 Ecological Requirements: 18–25°C; fertile, well-drained soils with neutral pH; 500–900
mm rainfall.
 Planting Material & Method: Certified seeds; hill or row planting.
 Spacing & Depth: 50 cm between rows × 10–15 cm between plants; 3–5 cm deep.
 Fertilizer Application:
o Basal: Apply DAP at 100 kg/ha or use compost manure.
o Top-dress: Usually not necessary; use CAN only if soil is nitrogen-deficient.
 Notes: Avoid waterlogged soils; inoculate seeds for nitrogen fixation.

6. Sunflower

 Ecological Requirements: 20–30°C; deep, well-drained loamy soils; 500–800 mm

rainfall.
 Planting Material & Method: Seeds; row planting.
 Spacing & Depth: 75 cm between rows × 30 cm between plants; 2–4 cm deep.
 Fertilizer Application:
o Apply 60 kg/ha DAP at planting.
o Top-dress with CAN or Urea at 50 kg/ha during flowering.
 Notes: Avoid excess nitrogen to prevent tall, leafy plants with fewer heads.

7. Sweet Potatoes

 Ecological Requirements: Warm (20–30°C), well-drained sandy or loamy soils, 600–

1200 mm rainfall.
 Planting Material & Method: Healthy vines; planted on ridges or mounds.
 Spacing & Depth: 75–100 cm between rows × 30 cm between plants; insert ⅔ of vine
into soil.
 Fertilizer Application:
o Use compost or farmyard manure (10 tons/ha).
o Avoid excess nitrogen to reduce foliage growth.
 Notes: Rotate with cereals to reduce disease buildup; ensure vine cuttings are pest-free.

8. Cassava

 Ecological Requirements: 18–30°C; light to medium-textured soils; tolerates drought;

rainfall 600–1500 mm.
 Planting Material & Method: Mature stem cuttings (20–30 cm); planted on ridges or
flat land.
 Spacing & Depth: 1 m × 1 m; bury ⅔ of the cutting.
 Fertilizer Application:
 o Apply farmyard manure (5–10 tons/ha).
o In poor soils, apply NPK 17:17:17 at 100 kg/ha.
 Notes: Choose varieties suited to local soil and market; harvest after 8–18 months
depending on variety.

Prepare annual crops planting records

Record keeping is a vital part of good agricultural practices. Planting records provide a clear and
organized way to track what was planted, when, where, how, and with what inputs. These
records are essential for farm planning, evaluation, monitoring progress, and making informed
decisions for future seasons.

Definition
Planting records are written or digital documents that capture all important information about the
planting activities of annual crops.

Importance of Planting Records

 Helps monitor planting dates for better crop scheduling.

 Keeps track of inputs used and costs incurred.
 Provides data for evaluating crop performance.
 Assists in planning future crop rotations.
 Useful for meeting certification, inspection, or extension requirements.
 Acts as evidence in case of insurance claims or market contracts.

Key Information Captured in Planting Records

1. Date of Planting – The actual date seeds or planting materials were put in the ground.
2. Crop Type and Variety – The name of the annual crop and its specific variety (e.g.,
maize – SC Duma 43).
3. Seed Source and Quantity Used – Where seeds were obtained from and the amount
used (kg/acre).
4. Field Location/Plot Name – Identification of where the crop was planted on the farm.
5. Planting Method Used – Whether direct seeding, transplanting, hill planting, etc.
6. Spacing and Plant Population – Row and plant spacing, or total number of plants
targeted.
7. Fertilizers or Manure Applied – Type, quantity, and date of application.
8. Weather Conditions – Observations on rainfall or temperature during planting time
(optional but useful).
9. Name of Person(s) Responsible – For accountability and traceability.

Sample planting record for annual crops

Field Details
Crop Beans
 Field Details
Variety Rosecoco
Date Planted 10th March 2025
Field/Plot Name Plot A2
Planting Method Row planting
Spacing 45 cm x 15 cm
Seeds Used 15 kg
Fertilizer Applied DAP – 10 kg/acre
Manure Applied Farmyard manure – 2 wheelbarrows
Source of Seeds Kenya Seed Company
Weather Conditions Warm and slightly rainy
Planted By Mary and team
Remarks Germination observed after 5 days

LEARNING OUTCOME 4: MANAGE ANNUAL CROPS

Field management practices are the routine activities and techniques carried out in a crop field
to promote healthy plant growth, maximize yield, and maintain soil and environmental health.

Importance of field management practices in annual crops

Field management practices are essential for the successful production of annual crops. Their
importance includes:

 Maximizing yield: Good practices improve plant health and productivity.

 Pest and disease control: Helps reduce incidences of pests and diseases.
 Efficient use of resources: Ensures optimal use of inputs like water, fertilizers, and
space.
 Weed suppression: Practices like mulching and proper spacing reduce weed growth.
 Improved crop quality: Leads to uniform and market-preferred produce.
 Environmental conservation: Helps maintain soil health and prevent erosion.

1.3 Types of field management practices in annual crops

Mulching

 Definition: Covering the soil surface with organic or inorganic material.

 Purpose: Conserves soil moisture, suppresses weeds, regulates temperature, and adds
organic matter.

Gapping

 Definition: Replanting in spots where seeds failed to germinate or seedlings died.

 Purpose: Ensures uniform plant population for maximum land use and yield.
Thinning

 Definition: Removing excess seedlings from a germinated row.

 Purpose: Prevents overcrowding, improves airflow, reduces competition for nutrients,
and enhances crop quality.

Training

 Definition: Guiding plant growth by tying, bending, or pruning.

 Purpose: Improves light penetration, supports weak stems, and makes harvesting easier.

Fertilizer application

 Definition: Adding nutrients to the soil or plants using organic or inorganic sources.
 Purpose: Enhances plant growth and yield by correcting nutrient deficiencies.

Pruning

 Definition: Removing unwanted plant parts (e.g., dead, diseased, or excess branches).
 Purpose: Promotes healthy growth, increases yield, and improves air circulation.

Trellising

 Definition: Supporting climbing or vining crops with stakes, wires, or nets.

 Purpose: Reduces disease, improves exposure to sunlight, and facilitates harvesting.

Weeding

 Definition: The removal of unwanted plants (weeds) from the crop field.
 Purpose: Reduces competition for nutrients, water, and sunlight; minimizes pest and
disease harborage.

Irrigation/ Watering

 Definition: Supplying water to crops artificially during dry periods.

 Purpose: Ensures consistent soil moisture for healthy plant growth and improved yields.

Crop Rotation

 Definition: The practice of growing different types of crops sequentially on the same
land.
 Purpose: Improves soil fertility, breaks pest and disease cycles, and enhances soil
structure.

Pest and Disease Management

  Definition: The use of physical, biological, and chemical methods to control harmful
organisms.
 Purpose: Protects crops from damage and ensures healthy growth.

Staking

 Definition: Supporting individual plants with sticks or poles.

 Purpose: Prevents lodging (falling over) and supports upward growth for certain crops
(e.g., tomatoes).

Earthing Up (Hilling)

 Definition: Drawing soil around the base of a plant.

 Purpose: Supports the plant, promotes tuber development (e.g., in potatoes), and
improves drainage.

Annual crops field management record

Preparing annual crops field management records is essential for tracking and improving the
productivity and health of crops. These records can be used for future planning, crop rotation,
and ensuring best practices are followed. Here is a basic outline of how to structure field
management records for annual crops:

Annual crops field management record template

General crop information

Field Field Field Size

Crop Variety Season Year
Name/Code Location (hectares)
Local Nakuru 2025 (Jan -
Example Field A Wheat 0.5 ha 2025
Hybrid Region Mar)

Land preparation details

Additional
Date of Field Method of Tools Inputs Condition
Comments/Challenges
Preparation Tillage Used (Fertilizer, of Soil
Lime)
Tractor, Moist,
Ploughing + Early preparation due to
2025-01-05 Hand DAP (50 kg) Well-
Harrowing expected rains
Hoe drained

Planting details
 Seed Row
Date of Planting Spacing Method of
Rate Spacing Comments/Challenges
Planting Depth (cm) (cm) Planting
(kg/ha) (cm)
2025-01- Direct Seeds were treated with
125 kg 5–7 cm 20–25 cm 30 cm
10 sowing fungicide

Irrigation management

Soil
Date of Amount of Irrigation Irrigation
moisture Comments
Irrigation Water (liters) Method interval (days)
level
Ensured deep
Drip
2025-01-15 1500 liters Adequate 7 watering after
irrigation
planting

Fertilization details

Date of Fertilizer Application Quantity Stage of

Comments
Application Type Method Applied (kg/ha) Growth
Broadcast + Good soil
2025-01-12 DAP 100 kg At planting
Mixed in Soil incorporation
Applied evenly in
2025-01-25 CAN Topdressing 75 kg Tillering
rows

Weed Control

Date of Method of Herbicide Used Quantity Stage of

Comments
Weeding Weeding (if any) (L/ha) Growth
Early Weeds were
2025-01-20 Hand hoeing None N/A
Growth minimal
Herbicide Glyphosate Effectively reduced
2025-02-10 2L Mid-Growth
application (Systemic) weed load

Pest and disease control

 Date of Pest/ Method of
Treatment Dosage/ Stage of Comment
Treatmen Disease Applicatio
Used Concentration Growth s
t Identified n
Insecticide Early Applied to
2025-01-
Aphids (Imidacloprid 5 ml per liter Spraying Vegetativ leaf
18
) e surfaces
2025-02- Fungicide Preventive
Leaf Rust 2 kg/ha Spraying Flowering
05 (Mancozeb) treatment

Harvesting

Date of Method of Yield Crop Post-Harvest

Comments
Harvest Harvesting (kg/ha) Condition Handling
Manual, with Drying, Storage Harvested early for
2025-03-05 2000 kg/ha Good
sickles in bins market

Post-Harvest activities

Activity Date Details Quantity Comments

Drying 2025-03-06 Sun-drying for 3 days N/A Stored in dry, cool area
Storage 2025-03-10 In air-tight containers to avoid pests 2000 kg No infestation observed

Financial records

Input Type Cost (per unit) Total Cost (shillings) Comments

Seed 1000 shillings/kg 125,000 shillings Purchased locally
Fertilizer (DAP) 3000 shillings/50 kg 6,000 shillings Bought from supplier
Irrigation (Water Cost) 10 shillings/m³ 1,500 shillings Local supply

LEARNING OUTCOME 5: HARVEST ANNUAL CROP

Definition of Terms

 Harvesting: The process of collecting mature crops from the field.

 Annual crops: Crops that complete their life cycle within one growing season (e.g.,
maize, beans, sunflower).
 Maturity indices: Characteristics or signs that indicate a crop is ready for harvesting.

5.1.2 Importance of Timely Harvesting of Annual Crops

 Ensures maximum yield and quality.

 Reduces losses from pests, diseases, and weather damage.
 Preserves nutritional value and marketability.
  Improves storage life and reduces spoilage.
 Prevents shattering or over-drying in crops like millet or beans.

5.2 Harvesting Tools and Equipment

5.2.1 Sickle

 Curved blade used for cutting cereal crops (e.g., wheat, millet).
 Suitable for small-scale operations.

5.2.2 Combine Harvester

 Machine that reaps, threshes, and winnows crops like wheat, maize, sorghum.
 Used in large-scale farming.

5.2.3 Hoes and Shovels

 Hoes used for uprooting crops like cassava and sweet potatoes.
 Shovels help in digging and lifting root crops.

5.2.4 Harvesting Knife

 Used for cutting stems or pods (e.g., beans, sunflower heads).

5.2.5 Buckets and Baskets

 Used to collect and carry harvested produce (beans, maize cobs, tubers).

5.2.6 Pruning Shears

 Used for precise cutting of fruit stems or pods.

 Common in bean and sunflower harvesting.

5.3 Uses of Harvesting Tools and Equipment in Harvesting Annual Crops

Tool/Equipment Crop Use

Sickle Wheat, millet Cutting mature stalks

Combine harvester Maize, wheat Mechanized harvesting

Hoe/Shovel Cassava, sweet potatoes Digging and lifting tubers

Harvesting knife Beans, sunflower Cutting pods or heads

 Tool/Equipment Crop Use

Buckets and baskets All crops Carrying produce from the field

Pruning shears Beans, sunflower Cutting pods, minimal damage

5.4 Maintenance of Harvesting Tools and Equipment

 Cleaning: After each use to prevent rust and disease spread.

 Sharpening: Blades of sickles, knives, and shears should be kept sharp.
 Oiling: Metallic parts should be oiled to prevent rust.
 Storage: Store in a dry, secure place.
 Repairs: Replace or fix broken parts immediately.
 Inspection: Regular checks for wear and tear.

5.5 Maturity Indices in Annual Crops

5.5.1 Indices

5.5.1.1 Colour

 Yellowing of leaves or cobs (maize), brown pods (beans), dry stalks (sorghum).

5.5.1.2 Texture

 Hardening of grains, drying of seed coats or pods.

5.5.1.3 Size and Shape

 Full-sized pods or tubers, well-formed grains.

5.5.1.4 Firmness

 Firmness in root crops like cassava and sweet potatoes.

Importance of Maturity Indices in Annual Crops

 Ensure crops are harvested at optimal quality and yield.

 Prevent post-harvest losses.
 Help determine the right harvesting method (manual vs. mechanical).
 Improve market value and consumer acceptability.

Methods of Harvesting Annual Crops

Hand picking
  Manual picking of pods, fruits or grains (beans, sunflower).
 Suitable for small-scale and delicate crops.

Use of tools

 Sickles, knives, hoes for medium-scale harvesting.

 Efficient but labor-intensive.

Use of machinery

 Combine harvesters, diggers for large-scale operations.

 Fast and efficient but expensive.

Prepare harvesting records

Harvesting record template

Field/Plot Method Yield Tools/Machines Labour

Date Crop Challenges/Remarks
No. Used (kg/ha) Used Used

Combine 2500 5 Some grains lost in

14/03/2025 Maize Plot 3 Combine
harvester kg/ha workers field

Hand 1500 10
20/03/2025 Beans Plot 5 Baskets, knives Rain delayed harvest
picking kg/ha workers

LEARNING OUTCOME 5: PROCESS ANNUAL CROP

Harvesting Annual Crops

Definition of Terms

 Harvesting: The process of collecting mature crops from the field.

 Annual crops: Crops that complete their life cycle within one growing season (e.g.,
maize, beans, sunflower).
 Maturity indices: Characteristics or signs that indicate a crop is ready for harvesting.

Importance of timely harvesting of annual crops

 Ensures maximum yield and quality.

 Reduces losses from pests, diseases, and weather damage.
 Preserves nutritional value and marketability.
 Improves storage life and reduces spoilage.
 Prevents shattering or over-drying in crops like millet or beans.

Harvesting tools and equipment

Sickle

 Curved blade used for cutting cereal crops (e.g., wheat, millet).

Combine harvester

 Machine that reaps, threshes, and winnows crops like wheat, maize, sorghum.

Hoes and shovels

 Used for uprooting crops like cassava and sweet potatoes.

Harvesting knife

 Used for cutting stems or pods (e.g., beans, sunflower heads).

Buckets and baskets

 Used to collect and carry harvested produce (beans, maize cobs, tubers).

Pruning shears

 Used for precise cutting of fruit stems or pods (common in beans and sunflowers).

Uses of harvesting tools and equipment

Tool/Equipment Crop Use

Sickle Wheat, millet Cutting mature stalks

Combine harvester Maize, wheat Mechanized harvesting

Hoe/Shovel Cassava, sweet potatoes Digging and lifting tubers

Harvesting knife Beans, sunflower Cutting pods or heads

Buckets and baskets All crops Carrying produce from the field

Pruning shears Beans, sunflower Cutting pods with minimal damage

Maintenance of harvesting tools and equipment

 Clean tools after each use.

 Sharpen blades regularly.
 Oil metal parts to prevent rust.
  Store tools in a dry place.
 Inspect tools before use.
 Repair or replace damaged tools.

Maturity indices in annual crops

Indices

 Colour: Yellowing of leaves or cobs, brown pods.

 Texture: Hardening of grains, dry seed coats.
 Size and shape: Full-sized pods, well-formed grains.
 Firmness: Firm tubers like cassava and sweet potatoes.

Importance of maturity indices

 Ensure harvesting at optimal quality and yield.

 Prevent post-harvest losses.
 Determine appropriate harvesting method.
 Improve market value and storage quality.

Methods of harvesting annual crops

Hand picking

 Manual picking of pods or grains (e.g., beans, sunflower).

Use of tools

 Use of sickles, knives, hoes for harvesting.

Use of machinery

 Use of combine harvesters and diggers in large-scale farming.

Harvesting records (Practice)

Harvesting Record Template

Field/Plot Method Yield Tools/Machines Labour

Date Crop Challenges/Remarks
No. Used (kg/ha) Used Used

Combine 5 Some grains lost in

14/03/2025 Maize Plot 3 2500 Combine
Harvester workers field

20/03/2025 Beans Plot 5 Hand 1500 Baskets, knives 10 Rain delayed harvest
 Field/Plot Method Yield Tools/Machines Labour
Date Crop Challenges/Remarks
No. Used (kg/ha) Used Used

picking workers

6.1 Process annual crops products

 Processing: Transformation of raw harvested products into forms suitable for

consumption, storage, or sale.

Importance of processing annual crops products

 Increases shelf life.

 Enhances marketability and consumer appeal.
 Adds value to raw products.
 Reduces post-harvest losses.
 Facilitates transportation and distribution

Processing tools, equipment and machines

Blender

 Used to puree or mix food items.

Mortar and pestle

 Used for grinding or crushing grains and tubers.

Weighing scale

 Measures quantities for processing or packaging.

Knives/Cutting materials

 Used for slicing and preparing raw crops.

Weighing cup

 Measures volume of ingredients.

Bowl Choppers

 Mix and chop processed food ingredients.

Bandsaws

 Cut large tubers or processed products into smaller parts.

Slicers

 Used to make uniform slices of fruits, vegetables.

Marinating equipment

 Infuses crops or products with seasoning or preservatives.

Vacuum tumblers

 Used for marinating and tenderizing under vacuum pressure.

Peelers

 Remove outer layers from tubers and fruits.

Uses of processing tools and equipment

 Blenders for pureeing tomatoes.

 Mortar and pestle for pounding millet.
 Weighing scales for portioning maize flour.
 Slicers for cutting sweet potatoes.
 Peelers for preparing cassava.
 Vacuum tumblers and marinating tools for value addition.

Maintenance of processing tools and equipment

 Clean after use.

 Sharpen blades regularly.
 Oil moving parts.
 Store in clean, dry environments.
 Calibrate weighing tools periodically.
 Service machines as per manufacturer's guide.

Methods of processing annual crops products

Harvesting

 Collect mature crops for processing.

Threshing
  Separate grains from husks or pods.

Drying

 Reduce moisture content for safe storage.

Cleaning

 Remove debris and contaminants.

Milling/Grinding

 Convert grains or tubers into flour or meal.

Distribution of Annual Crops Products

 Pack processed products.

 Transport using clean and appropriate vehicles.
 Supply to markets, processors, or retailers.
 Observe hygiene and safety standards.

Preparation of Annual Crops Product Records

Processing Record Template

Quantity
Crop Tools/Equipment
Date Processed Method Used Destination/Buyer Remarks
Product Used
(kg)

Cleaned
Maize
24/03/2025 300 Milling Grinder Local Retailer and
flour
sealed

Packaged
Cassava
27/03/2025 150 Drying/slicing Slicer, dryer School Canteen in 5kg
chips
bags