By Jovita Mirembe
Sowing seeds on a ground nursery is a quick and easy way to start producing vegetables, says Anthony Tumwiine, an Agronomist (expert in the study of soil management and crop development).
He says before establishing a nursery bed, a farmer should consider the soil type and if the selected area receives enough sunlight.
How to prepare a nursery bed
Tumwiine says that If the soil is well prepared, then a farmer will get good seedlings.
– Clean the area by removing the weeds and other plant debris.
-Cultivate the soil with a hoe and pulverize it well.
-Raise the bed with a height of 20cm during the dry season and 30cm during the rainy season. The raised beds will prevent seeds or seedlings from being washed away during heavy rain.
-Sterilise the soil by exposing it to sunlight for a few days before sowing.
– Burning dried grass on top of the bed is also an option, but not ideal due to environmental concerns.
-Before sowing, you can also water the bed daily for a week to germinate the weeds, then remove those that have sprouted. This will reduce the weeds growing at the same time with the seedlings.
Why land should be prepared
Having a well-prepared land ready for planting is crucial for several reasons.
-It ensures optimal soil conditions, including proper drainage and nutrient levels, essential for seed germination and plant growth.
-It promotes good soil structure, allowing roots to penetrate easily and access water and nutrients efficiently.
-Raised beds reduce weed competition, providing crops with more space, sunlight, and resources to thrive.
-It also helps to prevent erosion and runoff, preserving soil fertility and protecting the environment
Tumwiine adds that proper land preparation sets the foundation for successful crop establishment, healthy growth, and higher yields.
