An experimental potato project in Zimbabwe is testing two production methods under identical field conditions to assess performance differences for small-scale growers. The trial, established at Hlanganani Garden, is led by the Zimbabwe Development Democracy Trust (ZDDT) and aims to generate evidence-based data on crop responses to chemical inputs versus organic practices.
Two adjacent beds were planted for comparison. One was treated with a conventional input, Nature's Guard, described as a natural plant bio-stimulant used to support root and canopy development. The second bed is managed using a fully organic approach. ZDDT's agri-extension team and participating growers are monitoring germination rates, leaf development, pest incidence, and soil moisture levels in each bed.
The project is designed to measure crop vigour and productivity between the two systems, providing growers with practical data on which method may be more suitable for their production goals. Garden leaders and farmers are documenting weekly observations, while extension officers are recording germination, canopy density, and tuber formation throughout the growth cycle.
After harvest, tubers from both beds will be weighed and compared to determine yield differences as well as potential cost implications for smallholder production. The findings are expected to guide future agronomic decisions at Hlanganani Garden and could inform practices in other ZDDT-supported gardens in Bulawayo, particularly in relation to food security and income generation for participating households.
Source: ZDDT
