Farming in Tanzania advice

Richard McKnight 774

Hello
I know by reading this title you may be a little alarmed. But I would really appreciate some advice .
This summer I am heading to Tanzania to resume a drip agriculture project started by a previous team.
The process works great (I still have a few design updates I would like to implement tho)

Our biggest problem is pests (flies and worms) eating the crops 
- would it be benifcal to grow hedges around the acre of land we have? I.e would this reduce pests?
- I was then thinking of growing herbs around the acre perimeter as I hear it annoys pests as well. Is this true?

Any other tips also greatly appreciated

I would really appreciate any feedback as the idea is to make this sustainable for the locals - who will then in turn use their profits to build infrastructure around their own community.

Thank you 

Dovefromabove

My thought is that you should find out what eats the pests .......... other predatory insects, or birds, or both  ......... then provide them with the habitat they need.

The project sounds fascinating ...... best of luck with it ........... it would be great if you popped in every now and then to let us know how it's going

Richard McKnight 774

Thanks, never thought of that approach
Will do

Obelixx

I agree.  Identify the pests then encourage their natural predators.   Cheaper and more environmentally sound than chemicals.   You could also try planting sacrificial plants eg, I plant nasturtiums to attract aphids away from crops I want to eat and use lettuces to attract slugs away from other treasures.