The purchase of a tractor is not something that happens overnight. A tractor is considered a big investment in Zimbabwe so proper planning before purchase is a necessity. Below I will try to outline important steps taken before a tractor is purchased.
The first step is to check the size of your farming area. The size of the Massey Ferguson tractor is determined by the size of the land one intends to use the tractor for. The farming area can be 10 hectares but what is important to note is the area on which you intend to do the farming which can be 3-4 hectares or more.
Secondly, it is important to note the type of crops you wish to grow. The major crops grown in Zimbabwe are maize, cotton, soybeans, wheat, tobacco, and horticultural crops such as roses, flowers, and vegetables. Different crops are grown in different areas depending on the rainfall patterns. The growing of maize will need a Massey Ferguson tractor and farming implements like a maize planter and disc ploughs. A combine harvester is used to harvest corn. This means that you will need a bigger size Massey Ferguson Tractor that will be able to pull a harvester.
Thirdly, before you choose a tractor in Zimbabwe you have to be clear of the purpose you want to use it for. A Massey Ferguson tractor can be used for mining, agriculture, or construction. A tractor can also be used to carry water for livestock drinking. A tractor is basically a machine that provides machine power for performing agricultural tasks. Tractors can be used to pull a variety of farm implements for ploughing, planting, cultivating, fertilizing, and harvesting crops, and can also be used for hauling materials and personal transportation.
Fourthly, one has to know the time frame he has available before using the tractor. Farming in Zimbabwe is done mainly from late September to early December. Knowledge of the farming season will help you to understand whether to have enough time to either buy a locally available tractor or import one. Lastly, the budget is of great importance. When you know the farming area, the type of crops, and the purpose of the tractor you now need to know the budget for the purchase of the tractor. A good budget should range from US$8000 for either a brand-new tractor or a reconditioned tractor