The ongoing severe heatwave is disrupting public life and impacting the food production system, particularly the cultivation of summer crops and fruits. Here are 10 essential agricultural practices to consider amidst the intense heat wave sweeping across the nation. These recommendations aim to support those engaged in agriculture:
One. Maintain a water level of at least 2-3 inches in the paddy fields, especially crucial during rice flowering. Insufficient water may lead to paddy spoilage.
Two. In the Haor area, harvest ripe paddy at earliest possible to mitigate potential damage from natural calamities, and promptly collect it from the fields.
Three. Be vigilant for signs of rice blast disease, which can proliferate during this period. Regular field monitoring is advised, and consider applying a suitable fungicide as a preventive measure.
Four. Ensure adequate watering of fruit trees by creating basins at their bases. If possible, spray the plants with water. Remember, insufficient water during this period can lead to reduced fruit production and increased risk of fruit drop at early stages.
Five. Periodically flood fruit orchards, preferably once a week, and mulch with straw to retain soil moisture around the base of the trees.
Six. Incorporate organic fertilizers into the soil when cultivating vegetables to enhance water retention and nutrient levels.
Seven. Maintain a cool environment in livestock and poultry shelters to prevent heat stress. Use insulators under tin roofs, provide ample water and ventilation, and install fans or misting systems.
Eight. Ensure proper ventilation in livestock and poultry shelters by removing surrounding coverings and using nets instead. Regularly bathe cattle to help them stay cool.
Nine. Provide saline water, along with a mixture of salt, vitamin C, and glucose, for livestock and poultry to maintain hydration and health.
Ten. Maintain a minimum water depth of five feet in fish ponds, aerating the water as needed. Supplement fish diet with salt and vitamin C, and monitor oxygen levels to prevent oxygen depletion.
Lastly, farmers should prioritize their own health and safety during this time. Work during cooler parts of the day, stay hydrated with saline water, wear protective clothing, and take breaks to splash water on the face and bathe regularly. Consume easily digestible foods, and seek medical attention if feeling unwell