The problem of weed infestation on cassava farms is a major factor for low crop yield. This problem has caused untold hardship on the small-scale cassava farms where production at the subsistence level and where farmers still manage to produce some quantity for sale. The study examines cassava farmers’ perception of problems of infestation and preference for weed management practices in the humid agro-ecological zone of Nigeria. Data was collected with the aid of questionnaire and interviews. Random sampling technique was used to select 117 small-scale cassava farmers in the study area. Data analysis was done by simple descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage and mean. Findings of the study revealed that majority of the respondents (73.5%) grow cassava for both household use and for sale. The major source of labour identified by respondents was family labour (51.3%). About 55% of the respondents obtained cassava planting materials from the open market. Findings showed that the commonest weed control measures used by cassava farmers were hand pulling (100%), and hoes/cutlass (100%). However, the most preferred weed control measures identified include hoes/cutlass (100%), use of machines (100%), and a combination of methods (100%). Major problems affecting cassava farms as identified by respondents include grasses (88%), broadleaf weeds (66.6%), rodents (64.1%), other animals (63.3%), cassava rot (53.9%) and insect pests (48.7%). Extension education should focus on the preferred weed control measures identified by respondents so as to work out modalities for their adequate use. This can be possible if regular extension farmer forum is ensured.

preference; infestation; weed management practices

Published by University of Zagreb, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagreb, CROATIA
Sponsored by Ministry Science and Education of the Republic of Croatia