Plantains
Planting
We begin by selecting fertile, well-drained land, preparing the soil through deep plowing and harrowing. Plantain suckers are carefully chosen for planting, ensuring they are disease-free. The suckers are planted at the onset of the rainy season to guarantee sufficient water supply for initial growth.
Maintenance
Regular weeding and mulching are essential to retain soil moisture and control soil temperature. Strategic application of organic and inorganic fertilizers supports healthy growth, while integrated pest and disease management protects the crop..
Harvesting
Plantains are harvested 8-12 months after planting when they reach maturity but are still green. The bunch is cut from the plant, and suckers are managed to ensure continuous production.
Soybeans
Preparation and Planting
Soil testing guides the application of lime and fertilizers to meet soybean nutritional needs. We use no-till or reduced-till methods to preserve soil structure, planting seeds at the correct depth and spacing for optimal development.
Care
Crop rotation is practiced to disrupt pest and disease cycles. We employ integrated pest management strategies, combining biological controls, chemical treatments, and cultural practices to maintain healthy crops.
Harvesting
Soybeans are harvested when pods are fully developed but before they dry out completely, to maximize yield and quality. Combines are used for efficient harvesting and threshing.
Mushrooms
Substrate Preparation
We prepare substrates using organic materials like straw or manure, sterilized to eliminate unwanted pathogens. The substrate is inoculated with mushroom spawn under controlled conditions.
Growing Conditions
Temperature, humidity, and ventilation are carefully controlled to encourage mushroom growth.
Harvesting
Mushrooms are harvested by hand at maturity, usually within weeks of spawning, depending on the species. Careful handling is necessary to preserve their quality and extend shelf life.
Cassava
Planting
Land Preparation and Planting: Cassava cuttings are planted in well-prepared fields with sufficient spacing to accommodate growth. Planting at the start of the rainy season ensures the cuttings have enough moisture to establish.
Maintenance
Cassava requires minimal care; however, weeding and periodic application of fertilizers enhance growth. Pest and disease control is managed through careful monitoring and integrated management practices.
Harvesting
Cassava roots are ready for harvest 9-18 months after planting, depending on the variety and intended use. Harvest involves uprooting the entire plant.