Despite the recent cold conditions, some Berea district farmers have expressed their happiness over the early snowfall, citing that it provides the much needed moisture to grow crops.
Speaking to Lesotho News Agency (LENA), one of Lekokoaneng potatoes farmers Mr Mojalefa Mokotso said although many people were shocked by snowfall mostly at the lowlands, they view it as an opportunity to maximize their production.
He said snowfall has come at the right moment as they were embarking on winter cropping by and planting frost resistant crops such as wheat and peas, which they are likely to harvest in November or December.
He highlighted that farmers should view a snowfall as a welcome relief after they went through months without rains which led to drought conditions. Therefore, he added that the recently received snowfall is going to play a crucial role in improving the moisture levels in the soil.
“Early snowfall is the best weather event for winter cropping as it keeps moisture in the soil at the level where it is not too dry or wet for crops”, he explained.
Another farmer Mrs Matoka Motjetje said that they were reluctant to embark onto winter cropping due to dry conditions which they experienced, but the snowfall has revived their hopes.
She said they foresee improved harvest after they experienced the snowfall and their wheat and peas are going to grow even faster.
Sharing the same sentiments, the Chairperson of Berea Business Forum, Mrs Masehlabaka Lebina said the snowfall has boosted their morale and plans are already in place to sow wheat and peas.
She said apart from such grain crops, she is also going to plant cabbage and other vegetables with the available moisture.
She further pleaded with other farmers to take advantage of the available moisture in order to promote food security.
Berea is one of the lowlands districts which experienced the snowfall for the past two days.
Source: Lesotho News Agency (LENA), 05/06/2024
