Determinants of seasonal arable crop production among selected farmers in Ogun State

Abstract

The study, was conducted with a view to identify factors influencing the choice of crop production and seasonal cropping activities of the farm households. A multistage random sampling procedure was used to select 200 arable crop farmers across the four operational zones, comprising Abeokuta, Ilaro, Ikenne and Ijebu, in Ogun State. Information on crop production and factors determining the seasonal cropping activities of the farmers was obtained through the use of interview schedule and focus group discussion. It was found that, factor such as the onset and duration of rainfall distribution, farming experience, available farm labour and funds determine the timing of seasonal cropping activities of the farmers. Other factors such as the need for household consumption, high market value and suitability of the agroclimate influence the choice of arable crops produced by the farmers. Although, the farmers realised a low average yield of 1.7metric tonnes of Maize per hectare and 10 metric tonnes of cassava per hectare, they can still have their productivity improved, by adopting good farm management practices.

Keywords: determinant factors, arable crops; seasonal crop production, crop yield

Moor Journal of Agricultural Research Vol. 5(1) 2004: 49-58