How to control Striga and stemborer in maize.

Abstract

Maize is the most important staple food in Eastern Africa. But yields on smallholder farms are often very low, typically just one quarter of what could be achieved. In a good year, using improved varieties with good management, recommended amounts of fertilizer and effective control of pests and diseases could increase yields from 10 to 50 bags per plot. Farmers report that three main problems limit their maize yields: low soil fertility, stemborer and particularly Striga (also called witchweed). A range of simple and appropriate technologies have been developed to help overcome these problems. This leaflet explains how you can control Striga and stemborer at the same time, without using expensive chemicals.