The isolation of these 300 acres within the much bigger ranch make Darakuta an ideal location for propagating seed, including inbreds, hybrids and sensitive heirloom varieties.
This means that the timing of cultivation is managed very carefully to limit the need for chemical inputs, and chemical pesticides are only used when absolutely necessary. For example, to combat the invasive fall army worm, which presents a major challenge to maize production in this region. Great care is taken to choose chemicals that are less environemtally harmful, ensure proper application to prevent leaching, and ensure proper timing to prevent harming pollinators and other beneficial insects.
Environmentally friendly inputs and methods are used wherever possible, including push-pull methods, manure from our beef cattle and crop rotation with soil improving crops.
Since the early 2020s Darakuta has been improving crop diversity and crop roation by adding a variety of new seed crops:
Darakuta resumed production of hybrid maize seed in 2021, and has produced for local seed suppliers as well as exporters.
In 2022, seed beans were added to the mix.
Darakuta produces a range of seed flowers including Zinnia, Ipomea, Tropaeolum, Marigold and Balsam.
