Smallholder maize production: planting and basic best practices

Maize is one of the most important staple cereals across sub-Saharan Africa. Basic recommendations from FAO Sustainable Crop Production Intensification (SCPI) guidance for smallholder maize farmers: 1. Land preparation: clear land early and avoid burning crop residues; leaving mulch improves soil moisture. 2. Seed: use certified improved seed where possible; recommended spacing is roughly 75 cm between rows and 25 cm between plants (one seed per hill). 3. Planting time: plant with the first reliable rains; delayed planting reduces yields sharply. 4. Fertiliser: apply nitrogen-based fertiliser in two splits (basal at planting and top-dress 4-6 weeks later); add phosphate where soils are deficient. 5. Weed control: keep the field weed-free for the first 6 weeks; weeds cause the largest single yield loss. 6. Pest and disease: scout regularly for fall armyworm and stem borers; integrated pest management is preferred over routine spraying. 7. Harvest: harvest when grain moisture is around 18-20% and dry to 13% before storage to avoid aflatoxin.