the Agricultural Research Trust

ART Farm

The Agricultural Research Trust (ART) is a self-funded research and demonstration farm. Formed in 1983, ART has been at the forefront of agriculture in Zimbabwe and has international recognition for its achievements. 

Our general objectives are to provide Zimbabwean farmers with the latest agronomic research, testing of machinery and equipment, showcasing of livestock, and good practice in farm management. 

A large field laboratory provides facility for contract research, demonstrations, and independently funded research. The rest of the land runs as a commercial model farm, which in part funds the organisation. Fields may also be used for demonstration of crop varieties, irrigation infrastructure, and tillage equipment, for example. The pastures and paddocks which are situated on wetland areas also provide facility for testing and demonstration of grazing practices, breeds, and handling equipment. 

News

St John's School Visit

On Tuesday 29th March, 3 Grade 6 classes from St Johns Preparatory School  visited ART. 
The purpose was to improve engagement with the community and educate schools on the importance of research in agriculture. The classes spent a morning visiting various areas of the farm.

At the horticulture section, they learnt about the many types of vegetable, the difference between OPV and hybrid varieties, the benefits of mulching, and the importance of a diversity of vegetables in your diet.

Bargrove Vets kindly showed them cows being milked, how parasites are identified using microscopes, and the indigenous cross cattle.

The kids also visited the research section, where they learnt about regenerative agriculture. Here they tested compaction, soil stability, water infiltration, and plant diversity.

The day was a huge success and we look forward to having St John's Back!

ART Summer Open Day 2022

After 3 years, the ART summer open day returned in style. Over 350 Farmers, consultants, and company representatives from all over the country attended, to see the research being done this year and tour the agricultural stalls for machinery, products, fertiliser, and seed.

The ART of Farmi​​​​ng

Monthly Article written by our director, Rob Jarvis. Also published in ZiMunda.

Jan 22 |  Jan 22 |  Jan 22 |