There is not one single best management practice for all crop situations. The traditional planting-fallow-planting system that had been followed for many years had become unprofitable, mainly due to soil water availability restrictions and increased disease occurring due to the changing climate. These occurrences have led to the degradation of soils as organic carbon (humus) as well as field capacity decreases, while soil acidity and soil erosion increase. Increased profitability can only be achieved by maximising the yield potential of the crop/soil/climate combination, while input costs are also strictly managed. To achieve greater productivity with the available resources invested in a cropping system, it is important to consider the following basic principles of crop management.
- Soil selection is critical, requiring the soils on each land to be classified and reviewed individually to realise their potential
- Analyse soil samples to evaluate the fertility status and hydraulic conductivity of the soil
- Follow an effective liming program if the soil is too acidic for the intended crop
- Do fertilisation planning including all important plant mineral elements
- Apply appropriate soil cultivation methods, which include:
- alleviation of compacted soil layers,
- crop residue management,
- weed control and seedbed preparation, with the main aim of maximising soil water conservation in the soil profile.
- Plant several cultivars with high yield potential and relevant disease and insect resistance
- Calibrate planters to ensure the correct seeding density, fertiliser application and planting depth for seed germination
- Calibrate irrigation systems to ensure sufficient moisture during different growth stages of crops and to ensure the appropriate rate and intensity of irrigation water applied
- Select the optimal planting time for a particular cultivar and plant at the recommended seeding density to ensure optimal emergence and seedling establishment
- Follow an effective spraying programme to control weeds, insects and diseases during the growing season
- Timely harvest of the crop and post-harvest storage can impact optimal yield and grain quality.
- Effective marketing of the grain for successful financial management.