What grows in Lavushimanda
Muchinga, Zambia
The 2026/27 season in Lavushimanda
| Rainy seasons | One each year — one chance to plant, so timing carries it |
|---|---|
| When the rains are expected | October 2026 to April 2027 |
| Rain in a typical year | About 1,147 mm |
| This season's rain | Rain close to usual — plan around about 1,147 mm falling roughly when it always does |
| This season's heat | Hotter than usual — about +1.3 °C over the growing months. Heat makes the same rain do less, so a dry spell bites sooner: do not plant late, and shade or mulch what you can. |
| What that supports | enough rain for one short crop, and only if timed to it, warm all year, so nothing but rain ends the season |
| Ground this covers | 3 kinds of ground. The season below is the largest that farms — about 85% of this area. |
| 85% | enough rain for one short crop, and only if timed to it; warm all year, so nothing but rain ends the season 177 growing days · about 1,080 mm · November to April |
|---|---|
| 9% | enough rain for one short crop, and only if timed to it; warm all year, so nothing but rain ends the season 178 growing days · about 1,080 mm · November to April |
| 5% | enough rain for one full main crop; warm all year, so nothing but rain ends the season 180 growing days · about 1,050 mm · November to April |
last updated 16 September 2026
What grows in Lavushimanda
85% lowland, semi-arid, warm — 57 crops
-
GuavaFavourablePlant 13 Oct 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 25.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 35.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Finger milletFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 1 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 3.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 1 May 2026 – 21 Jan 2027
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Pearl milletFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 31 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 29 Aug 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 3.5 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Bambara groundnutFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 21 Jan 2027
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
LablabFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 31 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
FonioFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 11 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 1.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 21 Jan 2027
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Pigeon peaFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 1 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 9 Aug 2026 – 28 Oct 2026
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
MangoFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 20 Jan 2027 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 18.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 25.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
MaizeFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 31 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 6.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 9.3 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
SorghumFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 31 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 4.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 5.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
SoybeanFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 11 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 3.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 30 Jun 2026 – 10 Feb 2027 · about 4.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
TobaccoFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 3.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 3.5 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
RoselleFavourablePlant 13 Oct 2026 – 12 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 1.1 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 27 Dec 2026
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
MoringaFavourablePlant 23 Oct 2026 – 22 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 20.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 35.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableSoil pH below the crop's optimum -
CowpeaFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 20 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 1.8 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 29 Aug 2026 – 10 Feb 2027 · about 2.5 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Green gramFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 10 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 1.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 29 Aug 2026 – 21 Jan 2027 · about 2.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Niger seedFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 20 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 1.0 t/ha expected
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
PapayaFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 46.3 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 64.8 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
TomatoFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 37.1 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 64.8 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
EggplantFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 32.4 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 10 Jun 2026 – 2 Mar 2027 · about 46.3 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
WatermelonFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 9 Feb 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 35.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 9 Aug 2026 – 22 Mar 2027 · about 50.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
African eggplantFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 21 Jan 2027 · about 32.4 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
LemonFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 20 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 37.1 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
PumpkinFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 30 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 32.4 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Sweet pepperFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 37.1 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Sweet potatoFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 31 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 25.0 t/ha expected
· about 35.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
LimeFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 20 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 16.7 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 23.2 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Common beanFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 30 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 3.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
SunflowerFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 30 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 3.5 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
ChilliFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 21 Nov 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 13.9 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 23.2 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Passion fruitFavourablePlant 2 Nov 2026 – 31 Jan 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 18.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 27.8 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
CarrotFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 20 Jan 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 35.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 50.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Irish potatoFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 30 Jan 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 32.4 t/ha expected
· about 41.7 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
KaleFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 32.4 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 46.3 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Swiss chardFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 32.4 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 46.3 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
OnionFavourable
Plant 1 Nov 2026 – 10 Jan 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 27.8 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 41.7 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
CucumberFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 19 Feb 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 37.1 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
AmaranthFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 31 Dec 2026 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 18.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 27.8 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
African nightshadeFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 9 Feb 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 16.7 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 23.2 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Jute mallowFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 19 Feb 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 9.3 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 9 Aug 2026 – 11 Apr 2027 · about 13.9 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
OkraFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 30 Jan 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 10.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 22 Mar 2027 · about 15.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Spider plantFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 9 Feb 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 9.3 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 30 Jun 2026 – 1 May 2027 · about 13.9 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
RiceFavourablePlant 2 Nov 2026 – 2 Dec 2026 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 4.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 6.5 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
BeetrootFavourablePlant 11 Jan 2027 – 10 Feb 2027 opens in 15 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 27.8 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 10 Feb 2027 – 20 Jul 2027 · about 37.1 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
SesameFavourablePlant 13 Oct 2026 – 2 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 0.9 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 9 Aug 2026 – 28 Oct 2026
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
GroundnutFavourablePlant 13 Oct 2026 – 2 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.1 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 9 Aug 2026 – 17 Nov 2026 · about 3.2 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
WheatFavourablePlant 1 Jan 2027 – 21 Jan 2027 opens in 13 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 3.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 22 Mar 2027 – 30 Jun 2027 · about 6.5 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableSoil pH below the crop's optimum -
Egusi melonFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 0.9 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 29 Aug 2026 – 1 Jan 2027
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
CottonFavourablePlant 13 Oct 2026 – 23 Oct 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 1.6 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 17 Nov 2026 · about 3.7 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableNot enough water in season -
Sweet orangeFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 1 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 16.6 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 37.1 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableNot enough water in season -
MandarinFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 20 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 15.3 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 26.8 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
LettuceFavourablePlant 30 Jan 2027 – 19 Feb 2027 opens in 17 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 18.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 11 Apr 2027 – 20 Jul 2027 · about 32.4 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
GrapefruitFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 1 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 12.7 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 37.1 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableNot enough water in season -
YamFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 22 Oct 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 13.3 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 10 Jun 2026 – 28 Oct 2026 · about 23.2 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableNot enough water in season -
CashewFavourablePlant 23 Oct 2026 – 20 Feb 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 0.9 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
AvocadoFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 31 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 7.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 20.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableDry season too long for this crop -
TurmericModeratePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 22 Oct 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 6.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 27.8 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableNot enough water in seasonDry season too long for this crop
9% highland, semi-arid, warm — 47 crops
-
LablabFavourablePlant 14 Oct 2026 – 3 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
MangoFavourablePlant 14 Oct 2026 – 12 Jan 2027 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 16.7 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 25.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
MaizeFavourablePlant 14 Oct 2026 – 13 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 6.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 9.3 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
SorghumFavourablePlant 14 Oct 2026 – 3 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 3.7 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 5.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
SunflowerFavourablePlant 14 Oct 2026 – 12 Jan 2027 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.3 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 3.5 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
TobaccoFavourablePlant 14 Oct 2026 – 23 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.8 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 3.5 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Finger milletFavourablePlant 14 Oct 2026 – 13 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.7 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 1 May 2026 – 21 Jan 2027
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Bambara groundnutFavourablePlant 14 Oct 2026 – 3 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 1.9 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 21 Jan 2027
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
FonioFavourablePlant 14 Oct 2026 – 23 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 1.4 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 21 Jan 2027
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
GuavaFavourablePlant 14 Oct 2026 – 12 Jan 2027 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 25.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 35.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Niger seedFavourablePlant 24 Oct 2026 – 22 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 1.0 t/ha expected
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
PapayaFavourablePlant 24 Oct 2026 – 23 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 46.3 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 64.8 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
WatermelonFavourablePlant 24 Oct 2026 – 22 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 32.4 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 9 Aug 2026 – 22 Mar 2027 · about 50.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
PumpkinFavourablePlant 24 Oct 2026 – 12 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 32.4 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Common beanFavourablePlant 24 Oct 2026 – 1 Feb 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.3 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 3.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Sweet pepperFavourablePlant 24 Oct 2026 – 3 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 37.1 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
TomatoFavourablePlant 24 Oct 2026 – 23 Nov 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 37.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 64.8 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
ChilliFavourablePlant 24 Oct 2026 – 13 Nov 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 13.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 23.2 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
OkraFavourablePlant 24 Oct 2026 – 12 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 8.6 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 22 Mar 2027 · about 15.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
CarrotFavourablePlant 3 Nov 2026 – 12 Jan 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 32.4 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 50.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Irish potatoFavourablePlant 3 Nov 2026 – 22 Jan 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 32.4 t/ha expected
· about 41.7 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
KaleFavourablePlant 3 Nov 2026 – 23 Dec 2026 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 32.4 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 46.3 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Swiss chardFavourablePlant 3 Nov 2026 – 23 Dec 2026 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 32.4 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 46.3 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
BeetrootFavourablePlant 3 Nov 2026 – 1 Feb 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 27.8 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 10 Feb 2027 – 20 Jul 2027 · about 37.1 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
OnionFavourable
Plant 3 Nov 2026 – 12 Jan 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 27.8 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 41.7 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
CucumberFavourablePlant 3 Nov 2026 – 11 Feb 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 37.1 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Passion fruitFavourablePlant 3 Nov 2026 – 1 Feb 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 18.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 27.8 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
African nightshadeFavourablePlant 3 Nov 2026 – 11 Feb 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 16.7 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 23.2 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Jute mallowFavourablePlant 3 Nov 2026 – 11 Feb 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 9.3 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 9 Aug 2026 – 11 Apr 2027 · about 13.9 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Spider plantFavourablePlant 3 Nov 2026 – 11 Feb 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 9.3 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 30 Jun 2026 – 1 May 2027 · about 13.9 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
AmaranthFavourablePlant 3 Nov 2026 – 3 Dec 2026 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 18.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 27.8 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
ChickpeaFavourablePlant 6 Nov 2026 – 16 Dec 2026 opens in 5 weeks
based on the rains it usually gets
about 2.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 10 Jun 2027 – 30 Jun 2027 · about 3.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
GarlicFavourablePlant 13 Dec 2026 – 22 Dec 2026 opens in 11 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 9.3 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 22 Mar 2027 – 10 Jun 2027 · about 16.7 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableSoil pH below the crop's optimum -
WheatFavourablePlant 23 Dec 2026 – 22 Jan 2027 opens in 12 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 4.6 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 22 Mar 2027 – 30 Jun 2027 · about 6.5 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
LettuceFavourablePlant 2 Jan 2027 – 11 Feb 2027 opens in 13 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 11 Apr 2027 – 20 Jul 2027 · about 32.4 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
TeffFavourablePlant 1 Feb 2027 – 11 Feb 2027 opens in 18 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 3.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 11 Apr 2027 – 20 Jul 2027 · about 3.5 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableSoil pH below the crop's optimum -
African eggplantFavourablePlant 24 Oct 2026 – 3 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 19.6 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 21 Jan 2027 · about 32.4 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
EggplantFavourablePlant 24 Oct 2026 – 23 Nov 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 27.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 10 Jun 2026 – 2 Mar 2027 · about 46.3 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
CabbageFavourablePlant 11 Feb 2027 – 20 Feb 2027 opens in 19 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 34.7 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 11 Apr 2027 – 30 Jun 2027 · about 48.6 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
SesameFavourablePlant 14 Oct 2026 – 3 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 0.7 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 9 Aug 2026 – 28 Oct 2026
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
GroundnutFavourablePlant 14 Oct 2026 – 3 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 1.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 9 Aug 2026 – 17 Nov 2026 · about 3.2 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
RoselleFavourablePlant 14 Oct 2026 – 3 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 0.6 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 27 Dec 2026
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Sweet potatoFavourablePlant 14 Oct 2026 – 23 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 11.7 t/ha expected
· about 35.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
LemonFavourablePlant 24 Oct 2026 – 12 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 11.6 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 37.1 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableDry season too long for this cropSoil pH below the crop's optimum -
LimeFavourablePlant 24 Oct 2026 – 22 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 8.3 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 23.2 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableDry season too long for this cropSoil pH below the crop's optimum -
RiceFavourablePlant 24 Oct 2026 – 13 Nov 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 6.5 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
SoybeanModeratePlant 22 Jan 2027 – 31 Jan 2027 opens in 16 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 0.8 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 30 Jun 2026 – 10 Feb 2027 · about 4.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableNot enough water in season
5% lowland, sub-humid, warm — 46 crops
-
GuavaFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 20 Jan 2027 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 25.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 35.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
MangoFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 20 Jan 2027 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 18.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 25.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
SorghumFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 31 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 4.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 5.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Finger milletFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 11 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 3.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 1 May 2026 – 21 Jan 2027
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
TobaccoFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 3.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 3.5 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
SunflowerFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 30 Jan 2027 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 3.5 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Bambara groundnutFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 21 Jan 2027
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
LablabFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 31 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
FonioFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 1.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 21 Jan 2027
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
MaizeFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 31 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 6.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 9.3 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Niger seedFavourablePlant 23 Oct 2026 – 21 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 1.0 t/ha expected
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
WatermelonFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 9 Feb 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 35.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 9 Aug 2026 – 22 Mar 2027 · about 50.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Common beanFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 30 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 3.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
PapayaFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 46.3 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 64.8 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
TomatoFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 37.1 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 64.8 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
EggplantFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 32.4 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 10 Jun 2026 – 2 Mar 2027 · about 46.3 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
African eggplantFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 21 Jan 2027 · about 32.4 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
LemonFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 20 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 37.1 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
PumpkinFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 30 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 32.4 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Sweet pepperFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 21 Dec 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 37.1 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Passion fruitFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 30 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 18.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 27.8 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
LimeFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 20 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 16.7 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 23.2 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
ChilliFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 21 Nov 2026 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 13.9 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 23.2 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Jute mallowFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 1 Mar 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 9.3 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 9 Aug 2026 – 11 Apr 2027 · about 13.9 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
KaleFavourablePlant 2 Nov 2026 – 22 Dec 2026 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 32.4 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 46.3 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Swiss chardFavourablePlant 2 Nov 2026 – 22 Dec 2026 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 32.4 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 46.3 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableSoil pH below the crop's optimum -
CarrotFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 20 Jan 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 35.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 50.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
OkraFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 30 Jan 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 10.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 22 Mar 2027 · about 15.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Irish potatoFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 30 Jan 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 32.4 t/ha expected
· about 41.7 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
OnionFavourable
Plant 1 Nov 2026 – 20 Jan 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 27.8 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 41.7 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
CucumberFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 1 Mar 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 37.1 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
AmaranthFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 31 Dec 2026 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 18.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 27.8 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
African nightshadeFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 9 Feb 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 16.7 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 23.2 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Spider plantFavourablePlant 1 Nov 2026 – 9 Feb 2027 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 9.3 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 30 Jun 2026 – 1 May 2027 · about 13.9 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
BeetrootFavourablePlant 30 Jan 2027 – 19 Feb 2027 opens in 17 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 27.8 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 10 Feb 2027 – 20 Jul 2027 · about 37.1 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Sweet orangeFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 1 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 17.1 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 37.1 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableNot enough water in season -
MandarinFavourablePlant 22 Oct 2026 – 20 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 15.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 26.8 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
LettuceFavourablePlant 30 Jan 2027 – 19 Feb 2027 opens in 17 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 18.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 11 Apr 2027 – 20 Jul 2027 · about 32.4 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
RoselleFavourablePlant 13 Oct 2026 – 2 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 0.6 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 20 Jul 2026 – 27 Dec 2026
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Sweet potatoFavourablePlant 13 Oct 2026 – 22 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 11.9 t/ha expected
· about 35.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
SesameFavourablePlant 13 Oct 2026 – 2 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 0.7 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 9 Aug 2026 – 28 Oct 2026
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
GroundnutFavourablePlant 13 Oct 2026 – 2 Nov 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 1.7 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 9 Aug 2026 – 17 Nov 2026 · about 3.2 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
AvocadoFavourablePlant 12 Oct 2026 – 31 Dec 2026 opens in 2 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 7.0 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 20.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableDry season too long for this crop -
MoringaFavourablePlant 23 Oct 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 opens in 3 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 10.1 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 35.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableSoil pH below the crop's optimum -
RiceFavourablePlant 2 Nov 2026 – 22 Nov 2026 opens in 5 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.5 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 · about 6.5 t/ha
-
SoybeanModeratePlant 21 Jan 2027 – 30 Jan 2027 opens in 16 weeks
matched to this season's forecast
about 1.2 t/ha expected
Irrigated: plant 30 Jun 2026 – 10 Feb 2027 · about 4.0 t/ha
Pest/disease risk — manageableNot enough water in seasonSoil pH below the crop's optimum
Rain-fed. These dates are worked out from each place's own rainfall, for a field watered by the season — with irrigation a window can open earlier, close later, or come round more than once a year. Check your own field under What grows, or get the Divisi app for a calendar dated to your farm.
What grows in Lavushimanda with irrigation
These need water applied — rain alone will not carry them here. The dates are the windows their own water supply allows.
-
PineappleFavourable Needs irrigationPlant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 open now
matched to this season's forecast
about 64.8 t/ha expected
Pest/disease risk — manageableSoil pH outside the crop's rangeCorrect soil pH (acidifier) -
BananaFavourable Needs irrigationPlant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 open now
matched to this season's forecast
about 55.6 t/ha expected
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
TeaFavourable Needs irrigationPlant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 open now
matched to this season's forecast
about 4.2 t/ha expected
Pest/disease risk — manageableSoil pH outside the crop's rangeCorrect soil pH (acidifier) -
Arabica coffeeFavourable Needs irrigationPlant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 open now
matched to this season's forecast
about 2.3 t/ha expected
Pest/disease risk — manageableSoil pH below the crop's optimum -
CassavaFavourable Needs irrigationPlant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 open now
matched to this season's forecast
about 29.1 t/ha expected
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
TaroFavourable Needs irrigationPlant 10 Jun 2026 – 21 May 2027 open now
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.7 t/ha expected
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
GingerFavourable Needs irrigationPlant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 open now
matched to this season's forecast
about 23.6 t/ha expected
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
SugarcaneFavourable Needs irrigationPlant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 open now
matched to this season's forecast
about 68.5 t/ha expected
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
EnsetFavourable Needs irrigationPlant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 open now
based on the rains it usually gets
about 16.7 t/ha expected
Pest/disease risk — manageable -
Robusta coffeeFavourable Needs irrigationPlant 21 Jan 2026 – 1 Jan 2027 open now
matched to this season's forecast
about 1.6 t/ha expected
Frost riskPest/disease risk — manageable
What Divisi would not plant in Lavushimanda
Every crop in the catalogue is scored against this district, not only the ones that work — so the list above is a decision rather than a shortlist. These are the rest, with what ruled each one out.
- Cassava Only in patches — clears in part of this area, not across any one zone
- Tea Only in patches — clears in part of this area, not across any one zone
- Pineapple Moderate — Water
- Ginger Moderate — Water
- Sugarcane Moderate — Water
- Banana Unsuitable — Water
- Cocoa Unsuitable
- Coconut Unsuitable
- Taro Unsuitable — Water
- Arabica coffee Unsuitable — Water
- Robusta coffee Unsuitable — Water
- Enset Unsuitable — Water
- Oil palm Unsuitable
Divisi scored 74 crops against this district's own ground; 13 came back without a sowing date.
Plan the season, not just check it
The crops and dates above are read at cells spread across Lavushimanda, and the map colours which kind of ground each part of it is. Your own soil, slope and rainfall will shift the dates — the Divisi app works them out for your field, and dates each job that follows.
Or check your field firstWhat changed in Lavushimanda
- 2 September 2026 Tomato — Limiting factor changed
- 2 September 2026 Beetroot — Limiting factor changed
- 2 September 2026 Beetroot — Planting window moved, now opens 31 Jan 2027
- 2 September 2026 Sweet Pepper — Limiting factor changed
- 2 September 2026 Cashew — Limiting factor changed, now held back mostly by Frost & pests
This calendar moves
Planting windows shift with the forecast. Leave your email and we'll send what changed, and a note when planting time nears — a couple of emails a month at most.
Support and extension
- Farmer Input Support Programme
- Sustainable Agriculture Financing Facility
- Department of Agriculture
- Seed Control and Certification Institute
- Zambia Agriculture Research Institute
Frequently asked questions
What crops grow well in Lavushimanda?
Bambara groundnut, Finger millet, Fonio, Guava, Lablab all rate well in Lavushimanda — scored against its own rainfall, soil and terrain rather than a national average.
When should I plant Bambara groundnut in Lavushimanda?
In Lavushimanda the window for Bambara groundnut runs 12 Oct 2026 to 21 Dec 2026.
Is there a farming app that works in Lavushimanda?
Divisi does. It reads Lavushimanda's own rainfall, soil and terrain rather than a national average, so the planting dates and crop shortlist on this page are the same ones the app works out for a field here — then dates each job for that field, and keeps working with no signal.
Is this exact for my own field?
No — these are readings taken across Lavushimanda, not on your field. Soil, slope and rainfall change from one farm to the next. Check your own location to see your own numbers.