Preferences for Seed Quality and Cultivar Characteristics of Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) by Farmers in Ghana

Abstract

Peanut remains a major staple and important cash crop in Ghana. Seed quality is a critical component of successful peanut production in Ghana. A survey of 200 peanut farmers documented perceptions of seed quality attributes in 2019 in the Northern, Upper East, Upper West, Bono East, and Ashanti Regions of Ghana. Farmer-saved seed was the main source of seed for planting. High germination rate was the primary attribute of seed in the selection process. Farmers indicated that a premium would be considered for high quality seed. Farmers also agreed that certified seed and farmer saved seed provided high quality relative to seed found in local markets with respect to cultivar purity, germination, and seedling vigor. Shitaochi was the most popular cultivar. Early maturation was the most desired characteristic listed by farmers. These findings support the need for greater investment in seed quality for certified seed production and the need for improved regulation of seed sold in open markets.