aize is one of the most important crops grown in Rhodesia; it provides industrial rations and the staple diet of the rural population for whom in many areas it has replaced the native millet grown in former times. Maize is unlikely ever to be superseded by another grain crop. It is used extensively in cattle feeds and is also exported.

he production of maize has been concentrated on heavy red fertile soils in the better watered areas of the country where the rainfall is about 30 inches per annum. It is also produced with great success on the soils derived from granite in this particular ecological zone.

uropean farmers are justly proud of the efficiency with which they grow this crop. It is not uncommon for an average yield to be achieved in excess of 25 bags (each of 200 lb.) per acre over many hundreds of acres by more efficient producers. Exceptional yields of over 65 bags per acre have been recorded.

part from improved agronomic practices, such as the use of high plant populations, early planting and efficient weed control, the most important single factor contributing to the attainment of really high yields has been the introduction of locally bred hybrids to Rhodesia. They are extremely resistant to disease and have, in this country, a yield-potential which is excellent when grown under optimum management conditions.

t is estimated that African families living on the land in the Tribal Trust areas, comprising 40,000,000 acres, by adopting scientific methods brought to them through cooperative and community development schemes, have added substantially to their own and their country’s prosperity by producing better crops. Severe drought conditions which are endemic to Africa can only be counteracted by large-scale educational programmes and the provision of irrigation.

here are seven different types of maize, of which practically all grown in Rhodesia is dent. The hardy plant is the most commonly used grain-food for livestock, contributing almost the entire carbohydrate part of the ration and, in no small way, the protein and roughage supply. It is the key to increased calf and dairy production.

reen mealies or corn on the cob is a favourite dish on all Rhodesian tables.