What Should Be the Strategy of Farmers After Bearing Loss of Wheat Crop?
Many farmers in Pakistan are facing a tough time due to heavy losses in their wheat crops. This is a big problem, especially for those in South Punjab where wheat has already been harvested. Now, the question is, what should farmers do next? How can they recover and make the rest of the year profitable?
Don’t Depend Fully on Relief Packages
The government has announced a 15 billion rupee relief package for farmers. While this may sound helpful, many believe it won’t bring real change. It’s better not to depend too much on such schemes and instead focus on planning your own success.
Step 1: Use the Land Wisely After Wheat Harvest
As soon as wheat is harvested, don’t leave your land empty. Use it to grow short-term crops that can be harvested quickly. Two great options are:
• Sesame (Til)
• Short-duration varities like TR-3 or Niab Malanium
Sowing Time: From 1st to 15th August
Harvest Time: By the end of July
Why these crops?
• They are short-term and fit well between wheat seasons.
• They require less water and are suited for hot weather.
Step 2: Grow Maize Fodder After Sesame
After harvesting sesame, use a small portion of your land to grow maize fodder (makai ka chaara). This is a smart move because fodder is always in demand every village needs it for animals.
Sowing Time: From 1st to 15th August
Tips for Good Fodder:
• Use extra seeds and proper spacing.
• Apply enough fertilizer for strong growth.
• Make sure sesame was well-managed, it affects the next crop’s success.
Step 3: Plant Wheat Again on 1st December
Once maize fodder is harvested (by the end of November), get ready to sow wheat again.
Here’s a secret to save money and grow better wheat:
• Use 60 kg of wheat seed per acre
• Mix the seed with 10 kg of DAP (Diammonium Phosphate) before planting
• This gives the crop a healthy start in the first month
• After that, use Nitrophos fertilizer for better growth
If your land is sandy or not very fertile, use 65 to 70 kg seed per acre. This gives better coverage and stronger tillers.
Expected Yield: Up to 50 maunds per acre
Save More, Earn More
Instead of spending Rs. 100,000 per acre, this method helps you grow a healthy wheat crop for around Rs. 50,000 per acre. This means more savings and more profit at the end of the season.
Why This Three-Crop System Works
1. Sesame grows fast and earns quick money. 2. Maize fodder fills the gap and is always useful. 3. Wheat grows strong when the field is ready and properly treated.
By following this system, farmers can turn a bad season into a better one step by step.
Cocnlusion
Wheat crop losses can feel discouraging, but they don’t have to stop your progress. With smart planning, you can use the rest of the year to earn better profits and make your land more productive. The three-crop system sesame, maize fodder, and wheat is simple, cost-effective, and practical. It helps reduce risk, saves money, and increases your chances of a good harvest.
FAQs
What should I do immediately after harvesting wheat?
You should prepare your land to grow a short-duration crop like sesame or pulses before the next wheat season.
Is it safe to grow sesame during hot weather?
Yes, sesame is heat-tolerant. Just make sure to use good fertilizer and proper seed treatment.
Why should I grow maize fodder after sesame?
Maize fodder is easy to grow, quick to harvest, and in high demand for animal feed.
When is the best time to sow wheat again?
The best time is 1st December, right after maize fodder is harvested.The best time is 1st December, right after maize fodder is harvested.
How much wheat seed should I use per acre?
Use 60 kg per acre for normal soil and 65–70 kg per acre for sandy or weak soil.
