Abstract

A survey of 118 randomly selected cassava farmers was conducted in Ukpor, Amichi, Osumenyi, Ezinifite, Ekwulummili and Ebenator, communities in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State using structured interview schedule, to determine the use of improved cassava and local cassava cultivars in the area. Majority (64%) of the respondents cultivated both local and improved cassava cultivars. The improved cassava cultivars grown by the farmers were TMS 30572, TMS 30555 and TMS 4(2) 1425 while ‘akpuocha’, ‘udukanani’ and ‘achirinaka’ were the most popular local cultivars grown in the area.  However, TMS 30572 and ‘udukanani’ were the most widely grown cassava cultivars with 78.8 and 77.1% of the respondents cultivating them, respectively. Specifically, many of the farmers cultivated TMS 30572 for its high yield, perceived low level of HCN in products, high product quality, pests/disease resistance, ability to shade off weeds and early maturity. Similarly, greater proportion of the farmers cultivated ‘udukanani’ for its late maturity, ease of harvest and colour of tubers while others cultivated it for its ability to store longer after processing and the palatability of its products. The major factors that limit the effective use of improved cassava cultivars in the area were non-availability of important agrochemicals, high cost of labour and lack of finance. The study recommended investigation of the ‘udukanani’ cultivar to determine its suitability for future cultivar development.

Key words: Improved cassava cultivars, desired attributes.