One of the fundamental truths about farming is that there are very few practices that are universally “best.” Our approach is not to provide a simplified recipe for growers to follow. Instead, we work with local trainers to identify topics where improved management could be beneficial. We then develop simple training materials that describe possible management improvements, taking into account the local conditions and resources available in each area.

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Because we focus on small-scale and subsistence farmers, our training materials are designed primarily for trainers. These trainers, in turn, use the information to establish simple local demonstration plots that showcase improved practices and to conduct multiple training sessions at those sites throughout the growing season.

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These training sessions not only provide the foundation for educating villagers, but also help identify local needs and constraints. The training materials are not prescriptions for specific practices. Rather, they teach agronomic principles that allow growers to continually improve over time. For example, instead of teaching that a grower should use two bags of Compound D fertilizer and two bags of urea, we explain that fertilizer requirements vary based on expected yield levels. We also discuss common fertilizer losses and how growers can make the most of the resources they have. In addition, we teach how to recognize signs of nutrient stress so that corrective actions can be taken either immediately or in the following season.

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Because this is an ongoing process, there is no single “manual” for farming. Instead, we are developing one-page PDF files on many of the topics that arise. These materials are continually updated and expanded as new needs are identified.

The PDF files are available free for download on this website. To see some of the topic categories, scroll to the bottom of the “Information Creation” page.

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