Maize Planting Schedule — Long Rains Season

Maize succeeds when planted on time and managed on schedule. This is a guide schedule for the long rains. Adjust for your area — highlands start slightly later.

Before the Rains (Weeks -4 to 0)

• Week -4: Plough, clear residues and stubborn weeds.
• Week -2: Buy certified seed (hybrid or OPV), basal fertilizer and fall armyworm control. Plan your rates.
• Week -1: Mark rows; spacing 75 cm between rows, 25–30 cm between holes.

Planting (Week 0)

• Plant with the first reliable rain — 1–2 seeds per hole, 3–5 cm deep.
• Place DAP in the hole, mix lightly with soil before dropping seed.

Weeks 2–3: First Check

• Check emergence; gap-fill missed holes.
• Start scouting for fall armyworm — chewed leaves and frass in the funnel.

Weeks 3–4: First Weeding + Top-dressing

• Weed thoroughly.
• Apply first top-dressing (CAN/UREA) beside the plant with soil moisture present.

Weeks 6–8: Second Weeding + Second Top-dressing

• Second weeding before canopy closure.
• Second top-dressing before tasseling.

Weeks 8–12: Flowering and Grain Fill

• Water-critical period — irrigate through dry spells if possible.
• Continue pest and bird monitoring.

Weeks 16–20: Harvest

• Harvest when cobs are well dried (hard grain, black layer at kernel base).
• Dry grain to 13% moisture before storage; use storage protectants against weevils.