Weed Management Practices by Lowland Rice Farmers in the South West of Nigeria

Abstract

Report has shown that effective weed management strategy will result in better productivity which will in turn improve food security in Nigeria. However, little is known about weed management strategies practices by rice farmers and their performance in southwest agro-ecological zone. The aims of this study were to determine the weed management practices among lowland rice farmers and to assess the factors limiting productivity of lowland rice farmers in Southwestern Nigeria. Survey on weed management practice among lowland farmers in Southwestern Nigeria was carried out. A multistage sampling technique was adopted for this study. Ondo and Ekiti states were purposely selected with four local governments in each state. Questionnaires were administered to 200 rice farmers in rice producing villages visited. All data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The result of this study shows that 99% of farmers adopted chemical weed control than other methods. Pre-plant herbicides namely; glyphosate and paraquat were more available to lowland rice farmers in SW than post-emergence herbicides however, most products are applied with little or no reference to recommended rate. Also, most farmers cannot afford the cost of herbicide products, only few farmers (6%) have limited financial support consequent to poor literacy level among rice farmers in Southwest. It is recommended that weed scientists and weed control extension officers are needed to train farmers on effective weed management strategies. Adequate funding support for lowland rice farmers will enhance effective weed management in southwestern agro-ecological zone.