Knowledge of Farmers on Post-Harvest Handling of Tomato in Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed the knowledge of tomato farmers in Enugu State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study determined the knowledge level and practical skills of farmers on post-harvest handling, ascertained the causes of post-harvest losses, and ascertained the constraints to tomato post-harvest handling. Four local government areas were purposefully selected for predominating IN tomato production. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Percentage, mean score, standard deviation, and linear regression were used for data analysis. There is a significant negative relationship between annual income from production (t = -4.306) and their knowledge of post-harvest handling. Most farmers (84.2%) had moderate skills in post-harvest handling. Excess heat (40.0%) was the main cause of post-harvest loss. The major constraints to post-harvest handling include the high cost of improved implements ( 4.75) and inadequate knowledge about post-harvest technologies ( =4.43). Farmers had moderate knowledge and skills for post-harvest handling, which causes huge losses in product and profit. Adequate training should be given to farmers by the extension agents on non-tasking and cost-effective post-harvest techniques. The government should make available and accessible post-harvest technologies to farmers for improved production.