In South Africa, maize, or corn, is one of the most important staple crops. This nutritious grain provides sustenance for both humans and animals alike, and it has been a critical part of the country’s economy for centuries. In this article, we’ll explore when is maize harvested in South Africa and what impact this will have on the price of the crop. We’ll also look at how the government regulates this important food source and where you can get more information on these issues and others related to farming in South Africa.
Date of planting
The harvest season
The maize harvest season typically takes place during the months of October and November. These two months is the perfect time to harvest, as the temperatures are cooler and rain has stopped. The first step of the process begins with identifying a field that you would like to harvest from. This can be done by looking for maize fields which have been left untouched for a few days or by using a drone to scan for fields that might be ready for harvesting.
Things to be aware of at harvest time
Maize harvesting season generally falls from October to December, but this can vary depending on rainfall and the type of maize being grown. It is important to note that different varieties of maize are harvested at different times, so it’s important to know what type you’re growing. The flowering process for some varieties will happen after the first harvest, so it’s important to wait a few weeks before re-harvesting.
Storage tips and concerns
If you plan to store your maize for a long time, storing it at 60 degrees Fahrenheit will preserve it the longest. The type of container you use also matters – metal and glass containers are best because they don’t hold moisture. If you’re storing the maize on your porch, be sure to keep it out of direct sunlight – sunlight and high temperatures can make it go bad more quickly.