The new year started well, full of promise and new opportunities. But nature had its own plans. From October to March, we faced one of the toughest droughts in recent years. The once lush fields turned into a dry, lifeless expanse. All the grass turned white, brittle under the relentless sun. The sight of my farm, which usually thrives with greenery, was heartbreaking.
One of the biggest lessons I learned during this period was the true cost of taking risks in farming. I had some avocado plants that were not under irrigation, hoping that the rain would come in time to sustain them. That gamble did not pay off. The plants struggled, their leaves curled, and their growth stunted. It was a painful thing to watch, knowing that with proper irrigation, they would have remained strong and healthy.
When the rains finally came, it was like a rebirth. The once-dry land soaked up the water, and in a matter of weeks, the transformation was astonishing. The avocado plants that had suffered without irrigation miraculously bounced back. Nature has its way of healing, but the damage had already been done. The lost growth time cannot be recovered overnight, and that is where my biggest lesson lies: never gamble with water. If you want consistent results in farming, irrigation is non-negotiable. The plants will suffer, and recovery time will be lost. In farming, every day counts, and lost time translates to lost income.
During the first rains, I made sure to apply manure to all my avocado plants. If there is one thing I have come to understand, it is that manure is everything to avocados. The difference is visible. The plants that receive a good dose of manure flourish with deep green leaves and vigorous growth. Avocados are heavy feeders, and without proper nutrition, they will struggle even if they have enough water. Manure enriches the soil, boosts microbial activity, and ensures the trees get all the necessary nutrients for strong, healthy growth.
This experience has reinforced the importance of preparation. Farming is not just about planting and waiting for rain. It is about planning for the worst and making sure your crops have what they need to survive through tough seasons. The drought taught me to never take short cuts when it comes to irrigation and soil nutrition. I have since adjusted my farming approach, ensuring that even if the rains delay, my plants will not suffer.
As I look ahead, I am determined to improve my irrigation systems. Relying solely on rainfall is risky, and I have learned that the hard way. I will also continue investing in organic manure to keep my avocado trees thriving. Farming is a continuous learning process, and every season comes with its own lessons. This year, my takeaway is clear: always prepare for drought, never gamble with irrigation, and manure is the foundation of a healthy avocado farm.
Despite the struggles, I am grateful. The farm is bouncing back, and with better planning, the future looks bright. The new year started well, and I intend to keep it that way.
