Best way to grow cassava in Nigeria.
Cassava, scientifically known as “Manihot esculenta”, is a crucial staple crop in Nigeria, providing both food and income for millions of people. Its versatility, resilience, and high carbohydrate content make it a vital part of the Nigerian diet and economy.
Growing cassava successfully requires understanding its specific needs and implementing best agricultural practices.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on the best way to grow cassava in Nigeria:
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Choosing the Right Location: Cassava thrives in well-drained soils with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. It prefers sandy loam or loamy soils rich in organic matter. Avoid waterlogged areas as cassava roots are susceptible to rot.
Soil Preparation:
Start by clearing the land of weeds and debris. Plough the field to a depth of about 30 cm to loosen the soil, which promotes root penetration. If the soil is compacted, a secondary tillage might be necessary. Incorporate organic matter like compost or well-decomposed manure to enhance soil fertility and structure.
Selecting Cassava Varieties:
Selecting the right cassava variety is crucial. In Nigeria, some popular high-yielding and disease-resistant varieties include TMS 30572, TMS 4(2)1425, TMS 98/0505, and NR 8082. These varieties are bred to resist common pests and diseases like cassava mosaic disease (CMD) and cassava bacterial blight (CBB), and they also have good processing qualities.
Propagation and Planting
Stem Cuttings:
Cassava is propagated through stem cuttings. Select healthy, disease-free stems from mature cassava plants (10-12 months old). Each cutting should be about 20-25 cm long, containing 5-7 nodes.
Planting:
Plant the cuttings at an angle of 45 degrees, leaving 2-3 nodes above the soil surface. Spacing is critical to avoid competition for nutrients. A spacing of 1 meter by 1 meter is ideal, providing enough room for the roots to develop and for intercultural operations.
Fertilization and Nutrient Management
Fertilizer Application:
Cassava requires balanced nutrition for optimal growth. A soil test is recommended to determine the nutrient status of the field. Generally, cassava responds well to NPK fertilizers. Apply 400 kg of NPK 15:15:15 per hectare at planting. Split the application of nitrogen fertilizers to enhance nutrient use efficiency.
Organic Amendments:
Incorporating organic matter such as compost or green manure improves soil structure, enhances microbial activity, and provides a slow-release source of nutrients. This practice also improves the soil’s water-holding capacity.
Weed Control:
Weeds compete with cassava for nutrients, water, and light, significantly reducing yields. Implement an integrated weed management strategy:
Manual Weeding:
Hand weeding or hoeing is common, especially during the early stages of growth. The first weeding should occur 3-4 weeks after planting, followed by subsequent weedings at regular intervals.
Mulching:
Mulching with organic materials like straw, grass, or crop residues suppresses weed growth, conserves soil moisture, and adds organic matter to the soil.
Pest and Disease Management
Pests:
Common cassava pests in Nigeria include cassava mealybug, cassava green mite, and whiteflies. Integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, including the use of resistant varieties, biological control agents (e.g., parasitic wasps), and timely application of insecticides, are effective in managing these pests.
Diseases:
Cassava mosaic disease (CMD), cassava bacterial blight (CBB), and cassava anthracnose are prevalent diseases. Use certified disease-free planting materials, practice crop rotation, and ensure proper field sanitation to minimize disease incidence. If necessary, apply appropriate fungicides and bactericides.
Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling
Harvesting:
Cassava is usually ready for harvest between 9 to 18 months after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Harvesting can be done manually using a hoe or cutlass. Ensure to harvest at the right time to avoid fibrous and woody tubers.
Post-Harvest Handling:
After harvesting, cassava roots should be processed or consumed within 48 hours to prevent spoilage. For storage, consider techniques like peeling, washing, and drying the tubers to produce chips or flour, which have a longer shelf life.
Value Addition and Marketing
Value Addition:
Processing cassava into various products such as gari, fufu, tapioca, and cassava flour increases its market value and shelf life. Investing in small-scale processing equipment can significantly enhance profitability.
Marketing:
Establishing connections with local markets, agro-processors, and exporters is vital for successful cassava farming. Understanding market demands and trends can help farmers align their production to meet specific needs, thereby maximizing income.
In short, growing cassava in Nigeria can be highly profitable when best agricultural practices are followed. By selecting the right site, using high-yielding varieties, managing soil fertility, controlling weeds, pests, and diseases, and ensuring proper post-harvest handling, farmers can achieve optimal yields and contribute to food security and economic growth in the country. Adopting modern techniques and staying informed about advancements in cassava farming will further enhance productivity and sustainability in the sector.
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