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If you have ever planted maize, you know how quickly weeds can take over if you’re not careful. They pop up fast, compete with your crops for water, nutrients, and sunlight, and before you know it, your maize starts to struggle. That’s why early weed control is so important. Getting ahead of the weeds in the first few weeks after planting can make a big difference—not just in how healthy your maize looks, but in how much you harvest at the end of the season. In this blog, we will discuss simple, effective ways to manage weeds early and give your maize the best chance to grow strong and yield well.

But first… Why is early weed control important?

As an experienced farmer, you would know that the first 4 to 6 weeks after planting are the most critical for maize. During this period, the crop is establishing its root system and above-ground biomass. Weeds emerging at the same time can outcompete maize seedlings, causing stunted growth, reduced cob formation, and significant yield losses—up to 60% or more in extreme cases.

Weeds commonly found in maize fields fall into three categories: grassy weeds (e.g., crabgrass), broadleaf weeds (e.g., Amaranthus), and Sedges (such as nut sedges). Each group requires specific control strategies, and an integrated approach often works best. Controlling weeds early not only enhances the vigour of the maize crop but also simplifies ongoing weed management. Starting clean allows the maize to establish quickly, outcompete later-emerging weeds, and reduce the need for repeated interventions.

Best Practices for Early Weed Control in Maize

1. Land preparation

Proper land clearing and seedbed preparation can eliminate many weed seeds and reduce initial weed pressure. Tillage helps expose weed seeds to the sun or bury them deep, reducing germination.

2. Choosing the right seed variety

While proper land clearing is invaluable for giving your maize the right start, choosing the right seeds is just as important, especially when dealing with stubborn weeds like Striga (also known as “witchweed”). Striga can be very difficult to control using regular methods, and once it invades your field, it can reduce yields drastically. In such cases, your best bet is to plant Striga-resistant maize varieties. Options like SC419, SC526, and SC651 from SeedCo have been specially bred to withstand Striga attacks and give you a good harvest. We have no reservations whatsoever recommending any of them to you.

2. Use of pre-emergence herbicides

Applying a pre-emergence herbicide right after planting but before maize and weeds emerge is a highly effective way to suppress weeds from the outset. The suitable herbicide from Saro Agrosciences is Vigor.

This product offers broad-spectrum control of grasses and broadleaf weeds, with Vigor offering a prolonged residual effect of 8-12 weeks when used properly. We recommend applying within 24 hours of planting for maximal effect.

3. Post-emergence herbicide application

If weeds emerge despite pre-emergence control, follow up with a post-emergence herbicide. The timing should coincide with early weed emergence when the weeds are still small and easier to control. Striker is the best post-emergence herbicide for selective control in maize, effective against both grasses and broadleaf weeds, offering systemic control without leaching into the soil.

Note: Always follow label instructions to avoid crop injury and herbicide resistance. Also note that Striker is NOT compatible with an intercropped farm of Maize and Cassava, and if applied the Cassava will be harmed.

4. Crop spacing and density

Proper maize spacing (usually 25–30 cm apart) allows for faster canopy closure, which shades out weeds and limits their growth. Dense, uniform planting can be a natural weed suppressant.

5. Manual weeding and hoeing

Where herbicide use is limited or not possible, early manual weeding (around 2–3 weeks after planting) can significantly reduce weed pressure. However, it’s labour-intensive and must be done carefully to avoid damaging maize roots.

Early season weed control is not just a good practice—it’s a necessity for successful maize farming. Whether you are a smallholder or commercial farmer, investing time and resources into effective weed management in the first month of growth will set the stage for a bountiful harvest.

With the right strategy and good agronomic practices, you can minimize weed pressure and maximize your maize yield potential. We wish you all the best in the season ahead!

Clearing land is a major first step in setting up any productive farm, but it’s not just about removing weds, grasses and sedges —it’s about doing it right. Herbicides are a fast, efficient way to eliminate unwanted weeds and prepare soil for planting, but if misused, they can damage your land, harm the environment, and reduce the quality of your harvest.

Here are the essential dos and don’ts every farmer or land clearer must follow when using land clearing herbicides:

DOs: What You Should Always Do When Using Land Clearing Herbicides

1. DO Choose the Right Type of Herbicide

Not all herbicides are created equal—and not all are safe.

Some land clearing herbicides, especially those containing Paraquat, are highly toxic and can pose serious risks to the environment, water sources, and human health.

Instead, choose environmentally safer options like Gobara SG, Uproot, Sarosate, Slasha Gold, Slasher Super, and Slasher.

These top land clearing products from Saro Agrosciences contain active ingredients like glyphosate and glufosinate, which are designed to be effective on weeds while safe for the environment. They break down quickly in the soil and pose lower risks to non-target organisms when used correctly.

2. DO Read and Follow the Label Instructions

Every herbicide product comes with specific guidelines on how to:

• Measure and mix properly
• Apply safely
• Handle spills and exposure

Ignoring the label is not only dangerous—it’s unsafe for you as a farmer and can lead to crop failure or environmental damage.

3. DO Take Note of the Time Lapse before Planting

After applying herbicides, it’s important to wait before planting any crops. Typically, this wait time takes about a week for the herbicide to break down enough for it to be safe to introduce new plants. However, this waiting period can vary depending on the type of herbicide used, soil conditions, and the specific crop you want to plant.

If you are unsure about the right waiting time, don’t guess—reach out to us for expert guidance. Planting too soon can result in poor germination or crop failure.

4. DO Use Proper Safety Gear

Always protect yourself during herbicide application by wearing PPE gear such as rubber gloves, long-sleeved clothing, goggles, a face mask or respirator, etc. This helps prevent accidental exposure through skin contact, inhalation, or eye splashes.

5. DO Store and Dispose of Products Safely

We recommend keeping herbicides in their original containers, away from food, children, and animals. If you must store it, we recommend ensuring it is in a cool, dry place once done, make sure to dispose of empty containers properly.

Please, never reuse them for food or water.

DON’Ts: Mistakes You Must Avoid

1. DON’T Over apply

Spraying more herbicide than recommended won’t make the weeds die faster—it only wastes product and money, damaging the soil, and affecting future crop growth. Beyond these, the herbicides may stack up in the area, thus increasing the risk of herbicide resistance in weeds. Use only what’s needed. The earth will thank you.

2. DON’T Ignore Re-Entry Intervals

Every herbicide has a re-entry period—a specific time you must wait after application before entering the field again. Ignoring this can expose you (and your workers) to harmful residues that haven’t yet broken down.

Always check the label and respect the waiting period.

Land clearing is more than a job, it’s the foundation of your farming future. The herbicides you choose and how you use them will impact your yield, your soil health, and your legacy as a responsible farmer.

Choose products like Gobara SG, Uproot, Sarosate, SlashaGold, Slasher Super and Slasher for safer, cleaner land preparation. Follow best practices, protect your environment, and set your farm up for success.

Clear wisely. Farm responsibly. Grow sustainably.

Land clearing is the first and most important step when starting a new farming season. Whether you are preparing a large field for maize, cassava, legumes or any other crop, a well-cleared land lays the foundation for better planting, faster growth, and bigger harvests.

If you are a local farmer looking to make this process smoother, easier, and more effective, this blog post is for you. Here are some helpful tips—along with recommended land-clearing herbicides from Saro Agrosciences—that can make the work much easier and reduce the stress of manual labour.

Without further ado, let’s get to it.

1. Know Your Land

Before you begin clearing, take time to understand the land. Is it overgrown with grass? Bushes? Stumps? Knowing what you are dealing with will guide the type of tools and herbicides you will need.

2. Choose the Right Time

The best time to clear land is usually during the dry season. That way, the soil is firm, and there is less chance of machinery or labourers getting stuck in the mud. Plus, weeds dry up faster when sprayed, making it easier to clean up afterwards.

3. Let Herbicides Do the Hard Work

Manual land clearing can be tiring and time-consuming. Luckily, with the right herbicide, you can reduce the stress of clearing and avoid unnecessary manual labour.

Saro Agrosciences offers a range of effective land clearing solutions that help farmers clear their land with ease. Products like Slasher, Slashagold, Slasher Super, Gobara, Uproot, and Sarosate are specially formulated to handle everything from grasses and shrubs to stubborn weeds and bush growth. These herbicides allow you to save time, reduce costs, and conserve energy for the next stages of farming.

Pro Tip: If you have a small land size and do not want to spend too much, Gobara SG is a cost-effective option that still delivers excellent results. It is a smart choice for farmers working with limited resources.

4. Use Safely and Responsibly

Always wear protective clothing when applying herbicides. Read the label carefully and follow the usage instructions. Once done, make sure to dispose in an area that is out of children or other farm animal’s reach. Keep children and animals away from the area while spraying.

5. Follow Up with Maintenance

Once your land is cleared, check it from time to time. Some weeds may try to grow back. A quick spot spray with Uproot or any of the recommended herbicides can keep your land neat and planting-ready.

Land clearing should not wear you out. With the right solution from Saro Agrosciences, you can clear your land quickly, safely, and without unnecessary stress. Whether you are preparing a single plot or multiple hectares, there is a product to meet your needs and make your work easier. So, clear smart and farm better with help from Saro. Send us a message today!

Rice farming is more than just planting seeds and harvesting grains; it’s an art and science that feeds nearly half of the world’s population. For many farmers, rice is not only a staple crop but also a source of livelihood and community growth. However, getting started with rice farming can seem daunting, especially with the challenges of unpredictable weather, pests, and water management. 

The good news is that with the right knowledge and techniques, rice farming can be both productive and profitable. From selecting the ideal variety to mastering irrigation and nutrient management, each step plays a crucial role in achieving high yields. Whether you’re a first-time farmer or an experienced grower looking to optimise your practices, this blog offers five essential tips to help you kick-start your rice farming journey with confidence and success. 

Without further ado, let’s get started.

1. Choose the Right Rice Variety 

Selecting the right variety of rice is the first step in ensuring a productive season. Rice varieties differ in growth duration, yield potential, pest resistance, and adaptability to specific conditions. 

To this end, hybrid varieties such as FARO 44 and FARO 67 are the best bet as they provide increased yields, higher resistance to pests and diseases, local adaptability, and high market demand, which in turn ensures high profitability. 

Pro Tip: Always source your seeds from certified Saro suppliers to guarantee quality and purity. 

2. Prepare Your Land Properly 

Proper land preparation is crucial for rice growth, as it ensures good water retention and weed control. Plough the field to break up soil clumps and level it to prevent waterlogging in specific areas. Similarly, ensure to set in place an efficient irrigation system to maintain optimal water levels. 

Pro Tip: We recommend performing a soil test before planting to determine nutrients deficiencies and correct them accordingly.

3. Pay Close Attention to Irrigation 

Rice is a water-intensive crop, making irrigation a critical aspect of farming.  Here are some irrigation strategies you may want to consider:

– Flood Irrigation: Traditional but effective for flat terrains, ensuring uniform water coverage. 

– Drip Irrigation: Suitable for water-scarce areas, conserving water while keeping the soil moist. 

Pro Tip: For rice, it is good practice to maintain water depth between 5–10 cm during the vegetative stage for optimal growth. 

4. Be Ready for Prompt Control of Weeds and other Pests 

Weeds and pests can severely affect rice yields if not managed properly. Use pre-emergence crop protection products like Pendigold to prevent weeds from germinating or post-emergence options like Select Gold, Actrox or Nominee Gold to effectively control weeds after they begin appearing.

Insecticides like Fipro and Fungicides like Blue Snow are equally necessary crop protection options to protect your crops from insect pests and microbes, respectively.

Pro Tip: We recommend scouting your field regularly to identify pest infestations early in order to take immediate action. 

5. Focus on Nutrient Management 

Rice is a heavy feeder, requiring balanced nutrients for vigorous growth and high yields. Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K), Zinc and Sulfur are essential nutrients required in different quantities during tillering and panicle initiation stages to improve output and preserve grain quality. 

This nutrient requirement further drives home the importance of incorporating fertilizer usage. We recommend a combination of organic and synthetic fertilizers for sustained soil health. 

Pro Tip: Apply fertilizers based on soil test results to avoid wastage and maximize productivity. 

For staying till the end of the blog, here’s a bonus tip:

Timing is crucial!

Yes, planting at the right time is very critical in rice farming. In rain-fed regions, sow immediately after the first rains. For irrigated fields, align planting with water availability. For more details or personalized advice, feel free to reach out to us via any of our social media channels. We are always eager to help.

In conclusion,

While starting a rice farming venture can indeed be challenging, following these five essential tips will equip you for a successful season. By selecting the right variety, preparing your land properly, mastering irrigation, managing weeds and pests, and ensuring optimal nutrient application, you can achieve higher yields and profitability. 

Happy farming!

Legumes, such as soybean, cowpea, groundnut, beans, peas, and lentils, are essential crops for food security, offering a rich source of protein and vital nutrients. However, their growth can be severely impacted by various insect pests that feed on them, causing damage to both the plants and the harvest. Effective pest management is critical to ensuring a healthy yield. In this blog, we will discuss five common insect pests that affect legumes and the best insecticides to control or manage them.

1. Pod Borer (Maruca vitrata)

The pod borer is one of the most destructive pests of legumes, particularly beans and cowpeas. Its larvae burrow into the pods and feed on the developing seeds, causing significant damage. Infestations can lead to poor pod development, resulting in reduced yields.

2. Aphids (Aphis fabae)

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from legume plants, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and reduced vigour. They also excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can promote the growth of fungal diseases like sooty mould. Aphids can also spread viruses, making them particularly harmful.

3. Leaf Hoppers (Empoasca spp.)

Leaf hoppers are notorious for transmitting various viral diseases, such as the yellowing disease in beans. Their feeding weakens the plant, leading to reduced growth, yellowing of leaves, and premature leaf drop.

4. Whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci)

Whiteflies are small flying insects that cause damage by feeding on plant sap, leading to yellowing, wilting, and leaf drop. They also excrete honeydew, which fosters fungal growth and promotes the spread of plant viruses. Infestations can lead to reduced yields and overall poor plant health.

5. Cutworms (Agrotis spp.)

Cutworms are nocturnal pests that feed on the stems of young legume plants. They can sever seedlings at or near ground level, causing significant damage, especially during the early stages of plant growth. This can result in poor germination rates and the death of young plants.

Dear Farmers, we have goodnews!

We know how challenging it can be to protect your legume crops from pests, but the good news is that with the right insecticides, you can significantly reduce the damage they cause and keep your crops thriving. Products like Sting, Vanguish, Kombat, Cypertex, Solitex, Cypertex & Termex can be game-changers in helping you maintain healthy, productive plants. Remember, though, it is not just about the right product—following application guidelines, practising crop rotation, and ensuring good field sanitation are all part of the winning formula. Keep an eye on your crops, especially during the vulnerable stages of growth, and don’t let pests rob you of your hard work.

So, you’ve successfully harvested your legumes—congratulations! But now what? Post-harvest handling is just as important as growing the crop, as it helps keep your legumes fresh, pest-free, and ready for market. Here are five practical steps to take after harvest:

1. Clean and Sort Your Legumes

After harvest, it’s important to clean and sort your crop to remove any dirt, debris, or damaged pods. This not only helps keep your legumes in great shape but also makes them more appealing to buyers. Clean, high-quality legumes are more likely to fetch a good price.

2. Dry to the Right Moisture Level

Proper drying is crucial to prevent mould and pest issues. For legumes, drying to around 12-14% moisture is ideal. You can sun-dry them or use mechanical dryers for more control, especially if you’re up against unpredictable weather. Keeping them dry helps prevent spoilage and ensures they’re safe to store.

3. Protect Against Pests

Post-harvest pests, like weevils, can cause big losses if not controlled. Consider using safe, post-harvest insecticides from reliable providers, like Saro Agrosciences, to keep pests at bay. You could also use hermetic storage bags or airtight silos to naturally limit pest access.

4. Store in the Right Conditions

Good storage is essential to keep your legumes fresh and market-ready. Make sure your storage area is dry, cool, and well-ventilated. Using sealed bags or containers can also help extend freshness, especially if you’re storing legumes for the long term.

5. Plan for Market or Processing

Decide whether you’ll sell your legumes right away, store them for later, or process them into other products. Knowing your next steps will help you maximise the value of your harvest and make the most out of your hard work.

Taking these steps can help you keep your legumes in great condition, ready for market, and more profitable in the long run. After all the effort you’ve put into growing and harvesting, these post-harvest practices will help you make the most of your crop.

As harvest season approaches, farmers face the dual task of gathering crops and protecting them from potential pest damage. Pests, from insects to disease-causing organisms, can ruin a significant portion of the yield if not managed effectively. The goal is to ensure that crops remain in excellent condition from the moment they’re harvested to the point of storage, maximising both quality and yield.

Safe harvesting practices are key in achieving this and can make a substantial difference in reducing pest-related losses. Here are five essential tips to help you harvest with confidence and keep your crops pest-free.

1. Harvest at the Right Time 

Harvesting crops promptly as they reach maturity is one of the best defences against pests. Delays can attract insects and diseases that thrive on overripe crops, so monitor ripeness carefully to minimise pest exposure.

2. Inspect and Clean Equipment Regularly 

Contaminated tools can spread pests across your fields. Make it a habit to clean all harvesting equipment before each use, ensuring that no pests or residue are transferred. Clean equipment protects your crops and keeps them healthy.

3. Practice Proper Storage Techniques 

Proper storage is critical to prevent post-harvest pest invasions. Keep storage areas clean, dry, and well-ventilated, and inspect them regularly to detect any early signs of pests. Sealing storage facilities can further prevent pest entry and preserve crop quality.

4. Use Field or Storage Crop Protection Products 

Utilising insecticides or storage crop protection products can provide a strong line of defence against pests. Apply these products according to label instructions to effectively safeguard your crops during and after harvest, ensuring that they remain in optimal condition.

5. Quick Transport to Storage 

Transport crops to storage promptly after harvest to reduce exposure to field pests. Use clean tarps or pest-resistant containers during transit to prevent infestations and maintain crop quality on the way to storage.

By taking these essential steps during harvest, you safeguard the investment you’ve made all season long. Each of these tips is designed to address a critical point in the harvesting process, ensuring that crops stay as fresh and pest-free as possible. Protect your hard work with these tried-and-true methods and set your farm up for success both now and in the seasons to come.

Crop farming in Nigeria is a vital part of the economy, providing food and livelihood for millions of people. However, farmers often face challenges due to unpredictable weather patterns and climate change. Understanding common weather-related mistakes can help farmers avoid significant losses and improve their yields.

In this blog, we will explore these mistakes and provide strategies to avoid them.

1. Ignoring Seasonal Forecasts

Mistake:

Many farmers fail to pay attention to seasonal forecasts, leading to improper planning for planting and harvesting times. This can result in crops being planted too early or too late, affecting their growth and yield.

Solution:

Stay updated on seasonal weather forecasts through reliable sources like the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET). Use this information to plan your planting and harvesting schedules effectively. Consider using mobile apps or local weather stations to get timely updates.

2. Poor Soil and Water Management

Mistake:

Farmers often overlook the importance of soil health and water management. Weather changes can lead to either drought or flooding and without proper management, crops can suffer.

Solution:

Invest in soil testing to understand its composition and nutrient needs. Implement soil conservation techniques, such as cover cropping and mulching, to enhance moisture retention. Use irrigation systems during dry spells and establish proper drainage to prevent waterlogging during heavy rains.

3. Not Diversifying Crops

Mistake:

Some farmers focus solely on one type of crop, making them vulnerable to weather changes that could devastate their entire harvest.

Solution:

Diversify your crops to mitigate risks associated with weather variability. Consider planting drought-resistant varieties or crops that thrive in different climatic conditions. This strategy not only spreads risk but also enhances soil health and biodiversity.

4. Underestimating Pest and Disease Risks

Mistake:

Weather conditions can lead to pest and disease outbreaks, yet many farmers underestimate these risks and fail to implement preventive measures.

Solution:

Regularly monitor your crops for signs of pests and diseases, especially after significant weather events. Adopt integrated pest management (IPM) practices to control outbreaks. Educate yourself about the specific pests and diseases that are more likely to emerge in varying weather conditions.

5. Lack of Knowledge About Climate Change

Mistake:

Many farmers are unaware of how climate change affects weather patterns and their farming practices. This ignorance can lead to inappropriate strategies that fail to address current realities.

Solution:

Educate yourself about climate change and its potential impacts on agriculture. Attend workshops, training sessions, or join local farming groups to learn from experts and peers. This knowledge will enable you to adapt your practices to changing weather patterns.

6. Neglecting Insurance Options

Mistake:

Farmers often overlook the importance of crop insurance, leaving them vulnerable to losses due to extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, or storms.

Solution:

Explore crop insurance options available in Nigeria. This can provide financial protection against unexpected weather-related losses. Consult with insurance agents who specialize in agricultural policies to find the best coverage for your needs.

Conclusion

Weather-related mistakes can significantly impact crop farming in Nigeria, leading to reduced yields and financial losses. By staying informed, diversifying crops, managing soil and water effectively, and adopting preventive measures against pests and diseases, farmers can mitigate these risks. Additionally, educating yourself about climate change and considering insurance options will help safeguard your livelihoods.

With careful planning and adaptation, you can navigate the challenges posed by unpredictable weather and thrive in your agricultural endeavours.

Picture yourself standing in the heart of your fields, the sun warming your back as you’re surrounded by the lush green of your thriving crops. You’ve poured countless hours and tireless effort into cultivating this land, but with every season, you’re met with new uncertainties—unpredictable weather, pest outbreaks, and shifting market demands.

As a farmer, you know that success is not merely about hard work; it’s about making informed decisions with the right tools at your disposal.

This is where FarmPropa comes in, revolutionizing how you approach farming. More than just a mobile app, FarmPropa is your digital partner, built to provide everything you need to manage the complexities of modern agriculture. In a world where knowledge is power, this cutting-edge platform delivers insights, guidance, and community connections that can transform your farming practices and boost your productivity.

At its core, FarmPropa is built on the principle that knowledge is power. The app offers farmers a wealth of agronomic information, including crop-specific recommendations, pest management strategies, and detailed agronomic practices. This wealth of knowledge allows farmers to make informed decisions, optimizing their crop growth and ultimately leading to increased yields. For example, with access to timely pest identification guides and herbicide calculators, farmers can efficiently tackle the most pressing issues affecting their crops, ensuring they remain on track to achieve their production goals.

Another standout feature of FarmPropa is its commitment to building a community of support for farmers. The platform fosters collaboration, allowing users to explore Saro’s contact channels, share experiences, seek advice, and learn from one another. This sense of community is invaluable; it transforms the often isolated experience of farming into a shared journey of growth and innovation. Whether a farmer is seeking tips on best practices or sharing a success story, FarmPropa facilitates connections that enrich the agricultural experience and contribute to collective advancement.

As sustainability becomes an increasingly important focus in agriculture, FarmPropa stands out by promoting responsible practices. The app encourages eco-friendly farming techniques that not only benefit the environment but also help farmers maximize their yield sustainably. By integrating these principles into everyday farming practices, FarmPropa helps ensure a brighter future for agriculture that balances productivity with ecological stewardship.

In summary, FarmPropa isn’t just another farming app; it’s a comprehensive partner for crop farmers dedicated to enhancing productivity and sustainability. With its robust features, user-friendly design, and community-driven approach, FarmPropa is truly the perfect ally for every farmer ready to elevate their agricultural journey. By downloading FarmPropa today, farmers can unlock the full potential of their farming operations and embrace a more successful and sustainable future.