4.1 State FIVE important factors that a farmer must consider when doing pre-harvest planning of any crop - NSC Agricultural Management Practices - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1

1. Proper handling: Use care to prevent physical damage to the products.
2. Hygiene maintenance: Implement sanitary practices to avoid contamination during handling.
3. Temperature control: Store products at appropriate temperatures to maintain quality.
4. Timely delivery: Ensure products reach consumers fresh by minimizing time from harvest to market.
5. Aesthetic presentation: Package produce well to make it visually appealing to consumers.

Cold storage below 10 °C: Example - Fresh Vegetables (e.g., carrots). Freezing rooms at -20 °C: Example - Frozen Fruits (e.g., berries). Silos: Example - Grain. Stainless steel tanks between 0 °C and 3 °C: Example - Milk.

1. Reduced air exposure: Less spoilage due to minimal air contact.
2. Cost efficiency: Lower handling costs compared to smaller containers.
3. Less labour required: Simplifies handling due to fewer movements.
4. Easier management: Simplifies the logistics of inventory management.
5. Lower pest exposure: Less susceptibility to pest problems when stored in bulk.

1. Moisture: A necessary component for microbial growth.
2. Nutrient availability: Sufficient nutrients are vital for their development.
3. Suitable pH levels: Neutral pH is generally conducive to microbial growth.
4. Oxygen availability: Depending on the type of microorganism, oxygen can be essential.

Polystyrene is preferred as it is lightweight, easily cleaned, and does not absorb odours, making it hygienic for meat packaging.

Cardboard is less suitable for meat products due to its moisture absorption and difficulty in cleaning, which can lead to unhygienic conditions.

Contract marketing.

Internet marketing.

Auctions.

Fresh produce markets.

1. Ensures smooth farm operations and purposeful direction.
2. Anticipates changes and allows necessary adjustments in time.
3. Establishes clear goals and standards for monitoring.

1. Reduces duplication of efforts among workers.
2. Enhances cooperation among team members.
3. Makes management easier and more effective.

Motivation increases worker confidence and job satisfaction, leading to improved productivity. Motivated employees are more engaged, which enhances the overall efficiency of farm operations.

Agritourism.

The flyer should include:

• Location of the farm
• Contact details
• Available facilities (e.g., accommodation, activities)
• Information on activities (e.g., bird watching, hiking) Ensure the design is clear and engaging, no larger than A4-page layout.