Zambia Agribusiness Society

Terrestrial Orchids are also referred to as ground orchids. They are orchids that grows on the ground rather than clinging to stones or trees. Most orchids are epiphytic, i.e. they grow on trees or in some cases rock surfaces. They use their roots to attach themselves to a tree or a rock. Most people think about epiphytic orchids when they think about orchids. This is understandable considering that many of the most popular types of orchids including Phalaenopsis and Cattleya are epiphytic orchids. Chikanda, a local traditional delicacy made from orchids Terrestrial orchids can however be just as interesting and just as beautiful as epiphytic orchids. There are more than 200 species of terrestrial orchids. This might sound like a lot but the orchid family has more than 28 000 recognized species. Less than 1% of all orchid species are terrestrial. Introduction to Terrestrial Orchids Pseudobulbs are common on both terrestrial and epiphytical orchids. Different terrestrial orchids hav...

Carrots are vegetables which are eaten raw or cooked. It is an emerging high value crop; very rich in vitamin A which is what gives it the characteristic bright colour and sweetness good to be used in some fruit-like roles. When grated, they can be used in cakes, carrot puddings, blended in jams and other fruits. It has a demand in both small scale use and processors like canneries and dehydration firms. Ecological Requirements ·    Carrots do well in cool to warm areas. The roots are very sensitive to high soil temperatures. ·     Deep, loose loam soils which should be well drained and with a pH of 6 to 6.5. Poor drained soil encourages prevalence of bacterial diseases. Heavy clay soils give low quality, malformed and twisted carrots. ·        Altitude of 500m above sea level. Varieties Carrot varieties can be categorized into two fresh market and processing (canning) varieties. The common varieties are Nantes , Super Kuroda, Oxh...

While farmers have used gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate) for centuries, it has received renewed attention in recent years. This resurgence is due in large part to ongoing research and practical insights from leading experts that highlight the many benefits of gypsum. The latest information on gypsum has been covered in detail at past Midwest Soil Improvement Symposiums. The event — which has been held in conjunction with The Ohio State University’s Conservation Tillage and Technology Conference — typically includes presentations from industry representatives, scientists, consultants, and growers on the use of gypsum to improve soil structure, reduce nutrient runoff, and more. Here are five key (and overlapping) benefits of gypsum highlighted at past symposiums: 1. Source of calcium and sulfur for plant nutrition “Plants are becoming more deficient for sulfur and the soil is not supplying enough of it,” said Warren Dick, soil scientist and Professor Emeritus, School of Environ...

The Australorp is a fairly recent arrival on the chicken scene, but in its relatively short history, it has made a huge impression on chicken keepers and the poultry industry the world over. The name is a contraction of Australian black Orpington. The breed was called by several different names before Australorp was settled upon. Since the major development of this breed was done in Australia, the Australorp is the honorary National bird of Australia. In this article we will look at their temperament, egg laying ability and breed standard, before addressing how to properly care for them and common health issues. History of Australorps In the early 1900s,  William Cook’s Orpingtons  were imported to Australia with the intention of creating a good dual purpose bird suitable for the Australian climate. They were crossed with Rhode Island Reds  to improve the egg laying ability. In England, the Orpington was being refined to produce good quality meat, but the ever...

Rape (Brassica napus) is the most widely eaten vegetable in Zambia. Rape (Brassica napus) is a versatile leafy vegetable that can be used in a variety of recipes. The most common way it is prepared is by slicing it thinly then cooking them in oil with some tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Rape and kale are then enjoyed as a side dish with the staple pap and meat. What makes this a must-have vegetable in your garden or farm is that it can be grown all year round (though it is better suited to the cool season), and it is a steady, high-yielding vegetable that can guarantee you a constant supply of income. It is also suitable for urban farmers because it requires limited space. If you are ready to grow these luscious green leafy vegetables then follow the guide below. Climatic and soil requirements It is typically planted in early February but April is considered the best time to plant it. It does best at temperatures of about 15 to 20°C during the day and night temperatures of 10°C...