Improving Agriculture with the PlantVillage Plus IPM Bundle: The Success Story of Farmer Francisca Mwili

Challenges Before the IPM Bundle

Before discovering the PlantVillage Plus IPM bundle last year 2023 September, Francisca faced numerous challenges on her farm. Her soil was infertile and stony, making it difficult to grow healthy crops. She had never used biochar fertilizer, a crucial component for soil fertility, and struggled with frequent infestations of fall armyworm, which significantly reduced her maize yields. On top of these issues, her storage methods were inadequate, leading to post-harvest losses due to weevils.

“Before buying the PlantVillage Plus IPM bundle, my soil was infertile and stony, and I had never tried biochar. The fall armyworm infestations were relentless, and my maize yields were always disappointing. Storage was another struggle, with weevils ruining much of my harvest. It was a constant battle to keep my farm productive." Francisca Mwili

Francisca decided to invest in the PlantVillage Plus IPM bundle, a comprehensive package designed to enhance farming efficiency, improve crop quality, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The bundle includes hybrid seeds, hermetic storage bags, parasitoids, and biochar fertilizer. This decision marked the beginning of a new chapter for her farm. She received expert training and guidance from the PlantVillage field officers and learnt how to release parasitoids effectively on her farm as well as good agricultural practices like biochar fertilizer application.

“I had the pleasure of working with Francisca Mwili, guiding her through the process of releasing parasitoids and training her on the application of biochar fertilizer. Seeing her farm transform and thrive has been incredibly rewarding” Musau Mutisya, PlantVillage Field Officer

Improved Soil Fertility with Biochar

One of the most significant changes Francisca observed was in her soil. The inclusion of biochar fertilizer in the IPM bundle rejuvenated her land. Despite Machakos being a dryland, her soil became fertile and healthy. Biochar helped retain moisture and nutrients, creating an environment conducive to robust crop growth. Francisca urges other farmers to continue using biochar, highlighting its transformative impact on her farm.

“I urge my fellow farmers to use biochar on their farms. It has transformed my infertile and stony soil into healthy, productive land “Francisca Mwili

Higher Yields with Hybrid Seeds

The hybrid seeds, DUMA 43 provided in the bundle were another game-changer for Francisca. She has harvested six bags of maize from her half-acre land, a substantial increase from the three bags she used to get. The hybrid seeds were resilient and adapted well to the local conditions, leading to a bountiful harvest. Her maize leaves were healthier, and the plants were more robust.

 

Reduced Infestation with Integrated Pest Management

Francisca’s battle with fall armyworm saw a significant turnaround. The integrated pest management solutions in the IPM bundle drastically reduced the infestation. With fewer pests attacking her crops, her maize grew stronger and healthier, contributing to the increased yield. The reduction in fall armyworm infestation was a testament to the effectiveness of the PlantVillage Plus IPM bundle.

Enhanced Storage with Hermetic Bags

Post-harvest losses were a major concern for Francisca, but the hermetic storage bags in the bundle provided an excellent solution. These bags protected her maize from weevils and other pests, ensuring that her hard-earned harvest remained safe and fresh. For the first time, Francisca did not experience weevil infestation in her stored maize, allowing her to retain the quality and quantity of her produce.

A Bright Future for Farmers

Francisca Mwili’s success demonstrates the power of investing in sustainable agricultural practices and modern farming solutions.The PlantVillage Plus IPM bundle has transformed her farming experience, from improving soil fertility with biochar to achieving higher yields with hybrid seeds, reducing pest infestations, and enhancing storage practices.

Francisca encourages fellow farmers to embrace the IPM bundle, sharing her positive experiences and the tangible benefits she has witnessed. With healthier soil, higher yields, and better storage solutions, she is optimistic about the future of her farm and confident in the continued success of her agricultural endeavours.

“I strongly encourage fellow farmers to use the IPM bundle package from PlantVillage. The benefits are incredible – healthier soil with biochar, higher yields with hybrid seeds, reduced pest infestations, and secure storage with hermetic bags. This bundle has completely transformed my farming, and it can do the same for you."  Francisca Mwili