Farmers Union of Malawi (FUM) has called on farmers to start preparing for the 2025/26 farming season now so as to plant at the right time and right seeds.

FUM Chief Executive Officer, Jacob Nyirongo says the farmers should exercise caution with the variety of crops to use in the coming season and reminded them to follow the advisory and forecast from the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services.

Nyirongo has warned against laxity among farmers in the country, saying this could be a recipe for disaster.

He says early preparation for the season would help to avoid climatic shocks such as pockets dry spells that were projected to be experienced within the season.

He says by the end of September farmers should have procured all farm inputs as the rains are predicted to start by October in some parts of the country, adding manure application will reduce the impact of possible dry spells.

"The farmers need to ensure they are well prepared for the next farming season. having the right seeds at a right time is crucial," said Nyirongo

An agriculture expert, Ronald Chilumpha has tipped farmers to be following weather patterns to avoid losing their seeds due to  lack of information.

"The best the farmers can do is to plant with the first rains as these could increase crop growth and yields," says Chilumpha.

The Department of Climate change and meteorological services released the 2025/26 seasonal forecast on 12 September this year.