GRAPE-VINE INTO THE TROPICAL AND SUB-TROPICAL ZONES, GRAPE CULTIVATION IN NIGERIA

GRAPE-VINE INTO THE TROPICAL AND SUB-TROPICAL ZONES

GRAPE CULTIVATION IN NIGERIA

 

Grapevine (Vitis Vinifera L) is a fruit growing extensively in temperate countries, and its cultivation is known as viti-culture. In hecterage, it occupied the largest of the world among Orchard crops. Quiet notable world leading grape growing counties are France, USA, Italy, Spain, Australia, Russia, Germany, Egypt, Israel and Greece.

 

In Nigeria, grapevine had been introduced decades ago by Christian Missionaries and Italian Pilgrims, unfortunately, its development was short-lived because the techniques for its cultivation under tropical conditions were not known.

 

Researchers have shown that in the last sixteen years, grapevine imported from India and USA have fared well in home gardens. Recently, a few commercial plantations have been established in Dadin – Kowa, in Borno State, by Vegfru Company. Also a vineyard have been established by Agric. Industrial Farm in Zaria. This is rated one of the largest plantation at present Nigeria.

 

Through extensive research on this crop, UA – EKADOH the first indigenous Agro-consultancy outfit on grapevine production in Nigeria had in its initial stage used the northern part of Nigeria for its related Viticulture study-work. Increasingly, not fewer than hundred home gardens have planted grapevine in Zaria. A few others have also sprang up in Bauchi, Abuja, Kano, Kaduna including Plateau and Niger state. Similarly, UA-EKADOH in collaboration with its technical partner, Richter S. A. of France has established in 1994 that grapevine can also thrive well in the southern part of Nigeria despite of its heavy rainfall.

 

The lucky area include Awo-mama in Imo State, Isiele Okija in Anambra State, Ikot Efange, Calabar, in Cross River State, Alakuko in Lagos State, etc. Cameroun and Senegal with almost the same climate condition as Nigeria were used for the projects. There the plantations are thriving as well with high yielding.

 

 

 

 

 

i).       GRAPE-VINE SEEDLINGS

 

          Improved Varieties

1. Anab-e-shahi
2. Queen Black
3. Ekadoh Black
4. Ratham Sahi
5. Thomson Seedless

 

ii).      CULTIVATION:

1. Peg Marking 3m x 3m (10ft x 10ft)
2. Digging of holes 4ft x 4ft x 2ft (120m x 120m)
3. Mixing of Organic/Inorganic Manure, sharp sand and Humus Soil
4. Cost for making of Basin
5. Planting
6. Treatment around the plants against underground insects

 

iii).     INPUTS:

1. Insecticide chemical for treatment around the plants for control of termites and nematodes.
2. Trip of Cow manure
3. Trip of sharp sand
4. Bags of SSP fertilizer four (4) kg – per plant
5. Bone meal three (3) kg – per plant
6. Bag of NPK 15:15:15: Fertilizer for broadcasting around the plants once weekly for six (6) months.

 

 

VARIETIES OF GRAPEVINE

There are over 100 varieties of grapes grown in different countries of the world. This is stimulated by their discovery as raw materials for making wine, brandy, whisky, rasin, syrup, juice and desert. The following varieties are recommended for home gardens.

 

Anab-e-Shai                          A very vigorous spreading vine with cream coloured berries weighing 25-30grams. TSS16-17%.

 

Ratnam Shahi                       A bud sort of Anab-E-Shahi with elongated berries Sugar contents 16-18 TSS very attractive bunches.

 

Thompson Seedless             Seedless golden coloured berries weighing about 10 grams TSS 20-22% suitable for rasin.

 

Muscat of Alexandra          Mexindish berries with greenish coloured berries around the year. Has no dormancy TSS 15-18%.

 

Muscat Hamburg                 Purple coloured berries. Uneven ripening profilic yielder. Short spur variety. Suitable for wine making TSS 18-19%.

 

Queen Black                         The most popular grape variety and is the earliest to grow its flavour is mouth watering. It sets frely ripen well without head and constantly provides target bunches year after year. Good keeping. Total Soluble Solid (TSS) 25%. Total titratable acidity 0.45-0.55%.

 

Ekadoh Black                       A bud sort of Muscat Hamburg, purple coloured berries, prolific yielder. Short spur variety, hard shield, fungal resistance. Suitable for wine making. Can grow in all parts of Nigeria. baring fruits at all seasons. Total Soluble Solid (TSS) up to 20% Muscat flavour. Titratable acidity 0.8-0.9% good keeping quality.

 

VAREITY	NO OF BUNCHES PER VINE	AVERAGE WEIGHT	YIELD PER VINE (KG)
Queen black	165	200	33
Anab-e-Shai	100	400	40
Thompson seedless	60	100-150	9
Ratnam Shahi	100	400	40
Muscat Hamburg	150	150	22.5
Ekadoh Black	180	200	36

 

In 1985, a new variety of Grapevine was propagated and introduced by an India (Dr. L.V. Ratnam), in a village called Taba in Soba Local Government Area of Kaduna State of Nigeria. The variety is known as Ratnam Sahi, the first of its kind. He introduced Grapevine in commercial scale in Nigeria.

 

And in 1993, another new variety of Grapevine was propagated and introduced by a Nigerian (Mr. Umah E. Udoh), in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State of Nigeria. The variety is known as Ekadoh Black. He is now expanding the cultivation of Grapevine in large quantity in many states in Nigeria.

 

GRAPEVINE ECONOMICAL POTENTIALS

 

Grape (Vitis Vinifera L) is one of table delicacies. It is a good source of minerals like Calcium, Phosphorus, Iron and Vitamins like B1 and B2. Grape juice is a mild laxative as well as stimulant acting on the kidney. Grape juice can be processed into various total soluble solids and also processed to serve as industrial confectionery raw materials.

 

Example

 

Raisin:         Derived from seeded white grape, is useful in the production of

MUNNACA.

 

Wines:         Popular wines are made from grapes. These include the alcoholic and non-alcoholic wines. The range includes Sherry, Champagne, Vermouth, Appetizer, Dry wines and desert.

 

Syrups:        Grapes are useful ingredients in the making of syrups of various types. The list is inexhaustible. This underlines the evidence that grapes are desirable in various sectors of life – Pharmaceuticals, grapevine production is a good alternative to Crude oil in this generation.

 

Though growing grapes requires high initials investment, the end of the third-fifth year of planting witness a magnanimous recovery of booth the investment cost and the recurring expenditure, more meaningfully, from one hectare of well-maintained vineyard of Ekadoh Black, Ratnam Shahi or Muscat, Hamburg, depending on the prevailing market prices and the cost of input. In the event of defective pruning, unprecedented, rainfall, flowering and disease outbreak, profit is less with Thompson seedless and other varieties in Nigeria.

 

Under good maintenance and application of proper inputs, grapevine survives at 25-years life span before rejuvenation. In addition, a total average of 400 cutting seedlings could be obtained from a well-maintained 2 years old grapevine at N150.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Naira) per seedling.

 

AGE	KILO PER PLANT	PRICE PER KILO	TOTAL (P/PLANT)
3 years	10	300	3,000
4 years	40	300	12,000
5 years	50	300	15,000
6 years	60	300	18,000

 

Prices are bound to increase within the period under projection and that means surplus income for the sponsors, which could be sunk into project expansion.

Computation is based on 50% possible yield.

 

OVERHEAD BOWER SYSTEM

 

Support the vine to the OVERHEAD BOWER SYSTEM with a strip of Nylon rope

 

All side branches that appear from time to time should be nipped, allowing one main shoot to climb up 2m height.

 

Since the vines are climber, they are supported on an overhead horizontal bower of galvanized pipes or “AZARA” post, where wooden posts are used there is a need for the to ne treated with singular or Tar or old engine oil. These measure disallow termite attack or early decay; and in most cases, it is not advisable to use the wooden method instead, the iron pipe method is more safe and durable.

 

In most cases, the structures are erected one month after planting, so as to avoid growth wastage. There is also an additional introduction of 4mm flexible wire conveniently tied to the vertical square frame to support the growing vine. Although a number of training systems are known namely Kniffen, Telephone, Trellis System, etc.

 

Bower System: Owing to the vigorous growth of the vine and pronounced apical dominance in the tropics, this system is found most suitable for many of the commercial grape cultivators. It envisages the distribution of growing apex at many points and spread of the branches horizontally.

 

Among all the training systems, this is most expensive one. Bower of 2.1m (7”) height is erected using granite stone pillars, galvanized wire of 5, 8 and 10 gauge thickness and turning buckles.

 

Only the best growing shoot from the plant is allowed to grow upright along the stake provided up to the bower height.

 

The auxiliary shoots are discouraged. Growing is pinched-off at 15cm below the pandal level. Two shoots arising from below the cut end are allowed to grow in opposite directions on the wires overhead. These two shoots develop into ‘Arms’. Side shoots from these arms are allowed to grow at regular intervals of 45 to 50cm in dry regions, whereas, in comparatively cooler and more humid regions like Jos they are allowed at intervals of 60 to 70cm. These side shoots are called ‘Secondaries’ as they grow. Tertiaries or the cane, which are the fruiting spurs, develop from the secondaries.

The arms and secondaries from the permanent framework of the vine. The area allocated for a vine is covered in installments by intermittent pinching of the primary arms and secondaries not allowing them to grow more that 60cm at a time. They are allowed to rail straight along the wires by tying intermittently with banana fiber. All these tendrils are removed.

GRAPEVINE MANURING

 

The grapevine is voracious feeder and need large quantities of manure and fertilizers. The initial requirement of manure and fertilizer is for vegetative growth. After the initial dose (of fertilizer and manure), compound fertilizer (15:15:15) at the rate of 50gm per plant should be given as broad-cast one meter distance round the Vine at fortnightly interval, beginning from one month up to five month after planting. Rake gently with hoe every week.

 

During the first year, when vegetative growth is only encouraged to develop the framework of the Vines, 100g of Urea together with 200g of Super Phosphate is applied at monthly intervals to every Vine and 50kg farmyard manure, 3kg Super-Phosphate, 3kg Bone meal and 5kg of cake applied in the pit before planting.

 

Also, during the first year, the fertilizers are applied at a distance of 30cm from the trunk in a circular ring made round each Vine and this covered with soil from the alternating ridges.

 

MATERIALS AND DOSES REQUIRED

 

1. Farmyard manure 75kg/Vine
2. Green manure 30kg/Vine
3. Ammonium Sulphate 05kg/Vine
4. Urea 25kg/Vine
5. Super Phosphate 00kg/Vine
6. Potassium sulphate 75kg/Vine
7. Cotton seed cake           5kg/Vine
8. Mixture of bone and Flesh meal 00kg/Vine

 

NUTRITIONAL/PSYCOLOGICAL DISORDERS

 

1. INTERVEINAL CHLOROSIS

 

This disorder is common occurrence in Arab-e-Shahi grape South-East part of the country. The is more pronounced at the fruit maturity stage. The area between the vines becomes yellowish.

 

In severe cases the leaf tips dry-up. This disorder was attributed to magnesium deficiency probably induced by excessive fertilization with potash. Suggested remedial measures is spraying with 0.5 percent solution of neutralized magnesium sulphate during the fruit development stage. Two to three sprays at interval of 20 to 30 days are recommended.

 

1. BOSSOM-END ROT

This disorder was also reported FROM south East part of the country in Arab-e-Shahi grape. Initially a black sunken spot develops at the blossom-end of the berry. This spot goes on spreading with the water soaked region around it. Finally, the affected area becomes rotten. Defective calcium assimilation by the growing berries seems to be the cause for it. Usage of good quality irrigation after prolonged draught, spraying with 0.2 percent calcium solution or application of lime to the soil are the suggested remedies for this disorder.

 

1. DEAD ARM:

It is commonly occurring during the dry season particularly in Arab-e-Shahi in the Northern part of the country. Part of a primary arm or secondary branch suddenly dries up and eventually die. Secondary braches are mostly affected. Roots and stem of the wilter plant show a partial discoloration in distinct sectors running though the roots and affected branches. This disorder is attributed to the affected branches is only the remedial measures for this disorder.

 

1. IRRIGATION

Usually, young Vines need watering on alternate days at 75 litres and old Vines 350 litres at every 3 days interval. Water should be applied in basin of 2 metres diameter around each plant. No irrigation is required during the wet season, except if there is a break in rainfall for over 2 weeks.

 

1. WEEDING

Special attention should be given to keep the Vineyard free from weeds by occasional shallow cultivation. Most of the grapevine feeding roots are in the top 60-80cm layer. Therefore, the depth of cultivation should be minimum. Young grapevine4 are very sensitive to herbicides. No herbicides should be used for first 3-4 years.

 

1. TRAINING OF VINE

Training of grapevine is important as it helps to maintain the stature and spread of the vine in a way that is convenient to carry on the operation like pruning, inter-culture, spraying and harvesting. Training of the vine depends mainly on the nature of the vine with reference to its apical dominance and vigour. These arms are allowed to grow at a regular interval 0f 45-50cm in dry regions. Whereas, in comparatively cooler and humid regions like Jos, Plateau State, they are allowed intervals of 60-75cm. these side shoots are called ‘Secondaries’ as thy grow. Tetiaries of the Cane which are the fruiting spurs develop from Secondaries. As the grapes grow, only one single shoot should be nipped from time to time. Also, Todrils should be carefully nipped too, as the stem reaches 2m height, so that it may strange not the main stem.

Note: (a) that the Tendrils should not nipped during fruiting periods.

 

1. SHOT HOLE BORER:

Serious from June to October, Beetles borne holes in the stem and branches which includes exudation of gum, if gum is scrapped minute pinholes are visible Swam the stem and stem and bigger branches.

 

Beetles come out at night and feed voraciously on young shoots and leaves Hide in the nearby shrubs during the daytime. Damage is more in Vineyards near jungles. Control measure is by spraying with Perfekthion 100ml/20 litres of water.

 

 

1. TERMITES:

These feed on the roots and stems. When the attack is severe, the vines are killed. Control Young seedlings as transplanting are protracted against termite by applying chemical for termites. Repeat the application at least six (6) months interval.

 

1. DISEASE:

Grapevines suffer more from diseases than from insect pests. The most dreadful disease is Downy Mildew.

1. Downy Mildew: Humid cool weather mostly during July-August and November, December-while growth in patches in the lower surface of the leaf. Corresponding upper surface yellow patch dries up and the leaves drop in severe cases/ flowers and young fruits are also affected . flowers wither and drop. Control is spraying Dithane M-45 or Bordeaux Plus at 7days interval during July-August and 3-4 days interval during November-December.

 

1. Anthracnose: Rainy season mostly during July – August and October – December. This disease attacks fresh growth dark brown sucken lesions with black centre young shoots, leaves, tendrils and the young berries are affected. In case of severe damage, the shoot becomes crinkled and the leaf shows shot holes. The fruits show bird-eye spot symptoms. Control measure is spraying Bavistin or Ridomil 72 WP at 5 – 10 days interval during May to August and October to December.

Doses 50/m/20 litres of water.

 

1. PROPAGATION

The most common method of propagation is by stem cuttings. Cuttings, having at least four buds, should be selected from well matured canes of productive vines preferably from the October pruning. The buds on the cuttings should be prominent and healthy. Canes with suppressed buds that are flat, tapering abruptly or inversely should be avoided. Ideal canes are those which are 0.7 to 8.0cm in diameter with intermodal length varying from 8.

 

 

 

 

 

Among all the training systems, this is the most expensive one. Bower of 2.1m (7”) height is erected using granite stone pillars, galvanized wire of 5, 8 and 10 gauge thickness and turning buckles.

 

Only the best growing from the plant is allowed top grow upright along the stake provided up to the bower height.

 

The auxiliary  shoots are discouraged. Growing is pinched-off at 15cm below the pandal level. Two shoots arising from below the cut end are allowed to grow in opposite directions of the wires overhead. These two shoots develop into ‘Arms’. Side shoots from these arms are allowed to grow at regular intervals of 45 to 50cm in dry regions, whereas, in comparatively cooler and more humid regions like Jos they are allowed at intervals of 60 to 70cm. these side shoots are ‘Secondaries’ as they grow. Tertiaries or the cane, which are fruiting spurs, develop from secondaries.

 

The arms and secondaries from the permanent framework of the vine. The area allocated for a vine is covered in installments by intermittent pinching of the primary arms and secondaries, not allowing them to grow more than 60cm at a time. They are allowed to trail straight along the wire by tying intermittently with banana fiber. All these tendrils are removed.

 

 

THE NATURE AND CULTIVATION OF ORCHARD CROP

Orchard crops cultivation in Africa is speedily assuming an interesting dimension in agricultural development. In Nigeria for example, the Federal Government has been spurred to generate the needed foreign exchange through a large-scale cultivation.

 

The Orchard crops cultivation require high initial investment. The returns after the third year, when the first yield might have been harvested, outweighs the investment difficulties, such as loan obtained for financing of Orchard crops cultivation.

 

The loan so obtained with the accumulated interest is refunded at the end of the 5^th year, provided there is a provision, in terms of time that favours adequate operation and recycling of funds for future integrated expansion of the project.

 

In a large scale farm, there is the need to contract the management of the farm to an agricultural consultant. This allows for a farming system and training staff on specific Orchard crops management and techniques especially on the related variations.

 

Technically, well schemed and adequate provision of necessary inputs in terms of applications. The quantity cost of inputs; including chemicals application decreases in size while fruit quantity increases with age.

 

CROPPING:

Economically, the Orchard crops, which boost market demand in this category, include Apples, Mango, Citrus, Coffee, Cashew, Passion Fruit, Strawberry and Grapevine.

 

GRAFTED MANGOES:

There are different varieties of mangoes that fare well in Nigeria soil. These include Tommy, Pitch, Julie and John Bull. These four high yield varieties are suitable for export. They are capable of yielding fruits after three-five years of planting. They can fruits weighing 25-38kg during the first three to five years of planting. Presently, one kilogram of mango cost N25.00. The yield increases with age of the plant. It has a life span of about 50years.

 

CASHEW:

This tree yield after one year of transplanting. Cashew, apart from being a tangible stimulating in export market, serves many other purposes, especially in the local industries.

 

CITRUS:

There are different varieties of citrus that fare well in Nigeria soil. They include Washington-Tangelo, Sweet Orange and Naval Orange. These three varieties are high yield and they are capable of yielding after three-five years of planting. In Nigeria, one kilogram of orange fruit cost N20.00. Fruiting during its second year is about 30-48kg weight. The yield increases with the age of the plant. Life span is about 54 years.

1. i) GRAFTED MANGOE SEEDLINGS

Improved Varieties:-

1. Juliet
2. Peach
3. John bull
4. Hidissioner
5. Zill
6. Peter
7. Pama

 

1. ii) CULTIVATION:
2. Peg Marking 7m x 7m (25ft x 25ft) apart
3. Digging of holes 3’ x 3’ x 2’
4. Mixing of organic/Inorganic manure, sharp sand and Humus soil.
5. Making of Basin
6. Planting
7. Treatment around the plants against underground insects.

 

iii)      INPUTS:

1. Insecticide chemical for treatment around the plants for control of termites and nematodes
2. Trips of cow manure
3. Bags of SSP Fertilizer four (4) kg – per plant
4. Bone meal three (3) kg – per plant
5. Trip of sharp sand

 

 

 

1. i) BUDDED CITRUS

          Improved Varieties

1. Naval orange
2. Sweet orange
3. Washington Tangelo
4. Seed dock orange
5. Grape  fruit
6. Lime orange
7. Lemon orange
8. Tangerine
9. Indian lime

 

1. ii) CULTIVATION:
2. Peg Marking 7m x 7m (25ft x 25ft) apart
3. Digging of holes 3’ x 3’ x 2’
4. Mixing of organic/Inorganic manure, sharp sand and Humus soil.
5. Making of Basin
6. Planting
7. Treatment around the plants against underground insects.

 

iii)      INPUTS:

1. Insecticide chemical for treatment around the plants for control of termites and nematodes.
2. Cow manure
3. Bags of SSP Fertilizer four (4) kg – per plant
4. Bone mean three (3) kg – per plant
5. Sharp sand

 

 

 

 

1. i) GUAVA SEEDLINGS

Improved Varieties:-

1. Guava Supreme (White & Red)
2. Jumbo White

 

1. ii) CULTIVATION:
2. Peg marking 3m x 3m (10ft x 10ft)
3. Digging of holes 3’ x 3’ x 2’
4. Mixing of organic/Inorganic manure, sharp sand and Humus soil.
5. Making of basin
6. Planting
7. Treatment around the plants against underground insects.

 

iii)      INPUTS:

1. Insecticide chemical for treatment around the plants for control of termites and nematodes.
2. Cow manure
3. Bone mean three (3) kg – per plant
4. Sharp sand

 

 

 

Apple Seedlings

Improved Varieties

1. Anna (Israel)
2. Forest-Golden (the pollinator)

 

Cultivation:

1. Peg marking 3m x 3m (10ft x 10ft)
2. Digging of Hole 3’ x 3’ x 2’
3. Mixing of organic/inorganic manure sharp and humus soil
4. Making of Basin
5. Labour crystal super
6. Treatment around the plants against underground insects.

 

Inputs:

1. Insecticide chemical for treatment around the plants for control of termites and nematodes.
2. Trips of sharp sand.
3. Bags of SSP Fertilizer four (4) kg-per plant or crystal super.
4. Bone meal three (3) kg-per plant.
5. Cow manure

 

 

THE NEEDED INPUTS FOR ECONOMIC TREES

 

• INSECTICIDE CHEMICAL (for the control of termites and nematodes)
• SHARP SAND (for easy root penetration, to assist plant to absorb water and also help for easy air penetration to the root).
• COW MANURE (for fast growth and quality fresh fruit production)
• SSP FERTILIZER (for root establishment)
• PERFEKTHION (for control of plant – sucking and other insects. A systematic and contact insecticide and acaricide, used mainly against fruit flies and aphids)
• BONE MEAL FUNCTIONS TO THE PLANT.
• Micro-nutrient are necessary for root formation and plant growth.
• It strengthens the epidermis of plant against damages and disease penetration.
• It also strengthen the vascular bundles for fast growth in plants.
• THE NEED FOR PEST AND DISEASE CONTROL IN YOUR ORGANIZATION
• TERMITES: These feed on the roots and stems. When the attack is severe, the trees may withered and die.

To scare away dangerous reptiles such as snake etc.

• SHOOT HOLE BORER: Serious from June to October. Beetles borne holes in the stem and branches which induces exudation of gum.
• DISEASE: Economic trees and flowers suffer mostly from disease than from insect pest. The most dreadful disease is downy mildew.
• DOWNY MILDEW: Humid cool weather mostly during July-August and November.-December white growth in patches on the lower surface of the leaf. Corresponding upper surface yellow patch dries up and the leaves drop in severe cases.
• ANTHRACNOSE: Rainy season mostly during July-August and October-December. This disease attacks fresh growth dark brown such on lessons with black centre young berries are affected.

In case of severe damage, the shoot becomes crinkled and the lead shows short holes, the fruits show bird eye spot symptoms.

 

APPLE ECONOMIC POTENTIAL

Apples in general are temperate crops. However, a few years ago, some varieties have been introduced into the tropical and sub-tropical zones.

These varieties are considered early varieties in temperature zones. From these early varieties came from the idea of growing apples in the tropics.

The varieties are

Anna-Isareli

Dorsei Golden (the pollination)

 

In the face of this development, the produced apples are steadily gaining the market momentum so as to peg down the prices for the general reach.

 

Apples require an enormous market for distribution. These sums up the fact that a steady increase in production would automatically call for a sourcing of a more reliable external market, achievable after the importation of foreign ones must have been frustrated.

 

As soon as exportation starts, it is expected that its generation of foreign exchange to the country will shift the economic graph to a less austere trend. The local industries can also make use of a sizeable percentage in the production of fruit juice, multivitamin syrups and tablets.

 

Apples are also used as raw materials for the production of toilet soaps, hair and body creams. These and others use to narrow down the country’s budget for importation of raw materials for the related industries.

 

Apple trees suffer mostly from nematodes and termites.

This plant need close monitoring or the farmers will stand a chance of loosing the plant.

 

The use of soil analysis to continuously check your soil condition in terms of wrong application of fertilizer and how to correct it should not be over looked. Usually, too little or too much fertilizer to plants have retarded effect on crops yields, which in consequence, decrease yield.

 

This involves testing of the soil in the areas ascertain its suitability for the various crops. Important elements to be ascertained are pH, CEC, NA1, Fe, Ca, Na, Mn, EC, KP and organic content.

 

A solid example should be taken for testing from each marked out plot. All plants are affected by varying degrees of acidity or alkalinity of the soil. Some bloom well in acidic soils, some prefer alkaline environment while others do well where the soil sample, the pH has to be obtained.

 

Measurement scale is determined by a process involving the logarithm of the reciprocal of hydrogen ion concentration. By transplanting the mathematics of this measurement in all aqueous solution of the sample test

 

APPLE SEEDLINGS PROPAGATION

The technique here are straight forward.

 

There are two ways for Apple Propagation.

A manure roof could be cut and transplant into a prepared polythene bag and allow to grow for about one year before granting.

 

2. A new shoot growing from trunk of an old plant is been carefully cut along with the root and is transplanted into a prepared polythene bag to grow for grafting.

 

 

 

CONSULTANCY SERVICE, VISITATION ON APPOINTMENT

Consultancy service, visitation on appointment one year after planting of grafted mangoes, budded citrus, guava and grapevine on routine check of the plants. Consultancy or commitment fee per annum for the visit of the orchard/garden.

OBLIGATION OF THE CONSULTANTS TRAINING OF FRUIT CROPS

(1)       Spraying of crops against pest and disease control such as:

1. Downy Mild b.         Anthracnose                          c.         Termites
2. Nematodes e.         Flies, Mosquitoes                  f.          Cockroaches
3. Bugs h.         Ants                                        i.          Fleas,
4. Mites k.         Trips                                        l.          Leafhoppers
5. Aphids n.         Beetles                                    o.         White fly
6. Leaf Miner q.         Fruit Fly                                  r.          Lepidoptera
7. larvae t.          Scorpion                                 u.         Green Weevils
8. Flour Beetle w.        Tse-tse Flies                           x.         Ticks and Mites

 

1. Application of organic and Inorganic Manure Supervision:

This shall be in form of cow or horse manure and artificial fertilizer application supervision in form of phosphate and NPK from time to time.

 

1. Pruning:

Removal of any vegetative part is necessary. It is done to concentrate the activity of the flowers/plant and to induce sprouting of the fruitful buds located in the middle portion of the cases. In Nigeria, pruning is done twice in a year, once in October and again in April at the requisite time. Hence by pruning in summer, the apples and vines are forced to have rest period, which helps in the fruit bud differentiation. This is called “black pruning” for vegetative growth.

 

1. Severe maturing of the crops shall be carefully monitored and supervised as to attain fruiting canes with two calendar years. First during September to October, this shall be in the form of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium to each plant within the contracting period.

 

1. Periodical spraying and application of some trace elements when the need arises, such as:

Sulphate of Potash

Zinc Sulphate

Magnesium Sulphate

Bone Meal

 

1. The client has no right to invite any organization or individual to conduct any work or instruction in the garden during the contracting period.

 

1. The consultant’s visit to the garden could be adjusted due to any call on insects and diseases outbreak in the garden or farm.

 

OBLIGATION OF THE CLIENT:

(1)       (a)        To provide fungicides chemicals

for the control of downy mildew and Anthracnose

Disease for all the economic trees in the garden

(b)       To provide three (3) workers in the garden or farm to see the welfare of the farm/garden and report immediately to his immediate boss (on training).

(c)        To provide insecticides chemicals

(d)       To undertake irrigation i.e. at least 75 litre of water

when the need arise, subject to weather conditions.

(e)        To provide sprayer

(f)        To provide three big and small weeding hoe

(g)        Transportation of the inputs

(h)       To engage casual workers when the need arises.

(I)         Shall carryout job in the farm area as instructed by the consultant.

(j)         To keep the farm plot clean throughout (no herbicide to be used for

the first one year).

(k)        To provide trace element when the need arises, such as Sulphate of

Potash, Zinc, Magnesium and Copper conditions.

 

 

 

ASSORTED ORCHARD CROPS, CULTIVATION IN THE HORTICULTURE SYSTEM OF PLANTING AND IMPROVED VARIETIES OF SEEDLINGS

 

 

1. Bush clearing
2. Peg marking
3. Digging of hole 3’ x 3’ x2’
4. Mixing of organic/inorganic manure sharp and humus soil.
5. Planting
6. Treatment around the plant for the control of termite, nematode and other underground insects.
7. Soil sampling

This involves testing of the soil in the areas ascertain its suitability for the various crops. Important elements to be ascertained are p^h, CEC, n, Al, Fe, Ca, Na, Mn, Ec, K,P and organic matter content.

 

A soil example should be taken for testing each marked out plot. All plants are affected by varying degrees of acidity or alkalinity of the soil. Some bloom well in acidic soils, some prefer alkaline environment while others do well where the soil sample, the Ph has to be identified.

 

Measurement Scale is determined by a process involving the logarithm of the reciprocal of hydrogen ion concentration. By transplanting the mathematics of this measurement in an aqueous solution of the sample test.

 

8. Irrigation network
9. Land preparation

 

For any success of a farm all the following activities or preparation should be carried out as at September 30^th – June of every year for all the orchard crop cultivation.

 

 

 

ABOUT UMAH E. UDOH

Mr. Umah E. Udoh, family name and other name Sunday Jonah Udoh was born on 15 Sept., 1951 at Ekpene Obo Esit, Eket L.G.A of Akwa Ibom State. He is an orphan, his mother died when he was three (3) months old that obstructed his education. Petty business at the age of 8 years.

 

MY JOURNEY SO FAR FROM ENGINEERING TO AGRICULTURE ARE:

 

(A)       ENGINEERING:-

He enrolled in vocational training with Bemsin Welding and Construction Engineering Institute, Atabong Road, Eket 1965-1969, obtained Government trade test grade three (3) on welding, fitting and fabrication works respectively.  Awarded certificate on X-Ray pipe welding by Mobile Production Nigeria Company, Eket Terminal 1971, in collaboration with SANTA FE NIGERIA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD.

 

ON ROAD PROJECTS:-

1. Calabar Ikom Road at Ikom Bridge as a welder 1972 with RBB.
2. Calabar Itu Road as a welder 1973-1979 with REYNOLDS CONSTRUCTION CO. NIG. LTD. (RCC).
3. AND in 1979 he was employed by SHINCO NIGERIA LTD. CONSTRUCTION AND CIVIL ENGINEERING as a welder foremen.
4. Rigim Gumel Road, Kano State
5. Construction and Road network in 96 Army Barrack Sati Babruwa-then Gongola State.
6. Abong Nguroge Gamba Road, Manbila, Taraba State from 1979-1981.

 

(B).      AGRICULTURE: HORTICULTURE AS A PROFESSION

1. Obtaining Training course in Pest & Diseases Control Nursery Economic Tree seedlings maintenance, irrigation control and Grape-vine cultivation in the tropics/orchard crop production by Agric Industries Ltd. Zaria 1983-1985, in the professional grade level “B”.

 

2. RICHTER S.A. of FRANCE, UA-EKADOH. Technical Partner from 1985 till date. We offered over 36 soil chemical analysis report to farmers and 82 Feasibility study Report and Analysis for individuals, farms and companies.

 

He takes writing as one of his hobbies which led to publication of books: His books include:

1. THE WORLD TREASURE
2. BONE MEAL, THE SECRET FOR SUCCESSFUL TREE CROP AND ANIMAL PRODUCTION.
3. THE HEALING POWER OF FOOD VEGETABLE AND FRUIT.

The three books are all about Viticulture/Horticulture principles.

 

“O’ A SHORT PENCIL IS BETTER THAN LONG MEMORY”

 

 

THE LIST OF FARMERS THAT CONTRIBUTED TO AGRICULTUREAL LEGACY IN NIGERIA.

We have planted maintained farm for:

NO NAME AND ADDRESS

1. Alhaji Abidu Yazid farms in Kaduna State of Nigeria in 1986.

 

2. Himma Merchant farm Ltd. At Kuru, Jos, Plateau State of Nigeria (1995).

3. Thedda Farms Ltd. Lamingo, Jos in Plateau State (1993 – 1996).

4. Southgate Investment Farms Ltd. Minna, Niger State (1997).

5. Mail Farms Nig. Ltd. Lapea, Niger State in 1984 – 1986.

6. B.G. Farms Ltd. Kaduna/Zaria Road, Kaduna State of Nigeria in 1990

7. Suctone Ventures Farms Ltd. Kuje-Abuja, FCT (1998-1999).

8. Royal Estate farms Ltd. Calabar Cross River State of Nigeria. (1998-1999).

 

9. Doka Farm Ltd., Kuje Area Council, Abuja-FCT. (1998-1999).

 

10. Asuquo Okon Edet’s Garden No 51 A Silver Jubilee Quarters, Samaru-Zaria-(1995).

 

11. Alhaji Ibrahim Abdullahi Farm Zaria-Jos Road (1990).

 

12. Ango Abdullahi G.R.A Zaria (1994).

 

13. Liliani Enterprise Zaria (1985).

 

14. Joshua Egbabe’s garden Gold & Green Ltd. Jos Zaria Road, Jos, Nigeria (1995).

 

15. E.A Ikowak H.O.D Dept. of Local Govt. A.B.U Kongo Campus, Zaria (1985-1988).

 

 

 

 

 

CONTACT DESCRIPTION

Planting of Grapevine and maintenance.

 

 

Preparation of Feasibility study, planting/Maintenance of Grapevines, Apples, Strawberry and Coffee.

 

Planting and Maintenance of Grapevines, Apples an 1.5 Hectares of Strawberries and Coffee.

Preparing of Feasibility study, soil chemical analysis report and planting of assorted fruit crops in the farm. Supply of needed seedlings.

Painting of Grapevines, grafted mangoes and budded citrus.

 

Planting of grapevines and preparing of soil chemical analysis.

An evaluative exposition on the soil analysis of soils grown to grapevine (Ritis Vinefera L) Passion Fruit (Passiflora Edulis) etc.

Planting/maintenance of Grapevines passion fruits, grafted mangoes and budded citrus.

 

Planting/Maintenance of Grapevines passion fruit, grafted mangoes, budded citrus etc.

Planting/Maintenance of Grapevine and Strawberries.

 

Planting of Grapevine, Apples, supply of Agro-Chemicals.

Planting of Grapevine and supply of Agro-chemicals.

Marketing of Grapevines fruit.

 

Planting/Maintenance of Grapevine, Apples, Citrus and supply of Agro-chemicals etc.

Planting/maintenance of Grapevine, Apples, Citrus and supply of Agro-Chemicals etc.

 

16. Dele Atunwa Farms, Alakuko, Lagos, Nigeria (1997 – 1998).

 

17. Chief Owo J.. Ndarake Farms (The Isabai of Ekt), Kano – Nigeria (1995).

 

 

18. Alhaji Aminu Tijani Farms Ltd. Zaria Kaduna Road (1985).

 

19. Petrous Bandus Consultancy service & Integrated farming Kuje Area Council-Abuja. (1999-2000).

 

20. Dabi Farms Ltd. Laminga, Plateau State-Nigeria (1993-1996).

 

 

21. Frany International Orchard Gwagwalada-FCT, Abuja. (1999-2002.

 

 

22. A. Nahuche Farm, Dafara Junction, Kuje-FCT, Abuja. 1999-2007.

 

 

23. Dakams Farms, Dafarm, Kuje FCT-Abuja. 2001-2003.

 

 

 

 

24. Green Option Farm Ltd. Gaube Extension, Kuje Town to farm 9 Kilometers 17 Hectars 2001 – 2004.

 

 

 

25. Chiazor Farm & Sons (Nigeria) Ltd., Kubwa Expressway, FCT-Abuja. 2003.

 

Planting/Maintenance of Grapevine, Apples, Citrus and supply of Agro-Chemicals.

Planting/Maintenance of Grapevine, Apples, Citrus and supply of Agro-Chemicals.

 

Planting of Grapevines, Apples Mangoes and Citrus.

Planting/Maintenance of Grapevines, passion fruits, Grafted mangoes, Budded Citrus etc.

 

Planting/Maintenance of Grapevines, Apples, Strawberries, Grafted Mangoes, Budded Citrus and Agro chemicals Supply etc.

 

Planting/Consultancy Service Visitation on Appointment Grapevines Apple, Passion Fruit and Supply of Agro-Chemicals etc.

Planting/Consultancy Service Visitation on Appointment. (1) Grapevines (2) Apples (3) Passion Fruit (4) Budded Citrus (5) Grafted Mangoes and supply of Agro-chemicals etc.

Planting/Consulting Service, Visitation on appointment. 1. Grafted Mangoes (2) Budded Citrus (3) Supply of Agro-Chemicals (4) Designing of Mini-Dam (5) Digging of the Dam (6) Stone Pitching of the Dam (7) Modern irrigation Designing

 

Planting Services, on Planting of perennial Crop and Planting of Economic Trees such as: (1) Grafted Mangoes (2) Budded Citrus (3) Guava Supreme (4) Eucalyptus (5) Supply of Agro-chemicals.

Consulting Service on Planting of Economic Trees (1) Grafted Mangoes (2) Budded Citrus.

 

 

 

 

 

26. Alh. Abubakar Sani Farms, Rije, Kuje, – FCT, Abuja 2004 – 2008 27. Barrister Yahaya Farms Kuje,

 

 

 

Gwagwalada Road, Kuje, FCT-Abuja. 2005-2006.

 

 

28. Gorkra Nig. Ltd. Bamishe Farm,
    Gaube Extension Kuje, Abuja. 2005 – 2007

 

 

29. Chief C.O. Adebayo, Ministers quarters, Mabushi –Abuja 2006.

 

 

30. PRISMAC FARMS LTD.

OBA ALADODO DISTRICT, IPETU RD., OMU-ARAN, KWARA – STATE 2009/2010

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Grapevine
4. Guava Supreme and Jumbo white
5. Passion Fruit
6. Supply of Agro-chemicals
7. Modern Irrigation Designing.

 

Consultancy Services on Cultivation, modern irrigation design, supply of seedlings and Agro-Chemicals. The improved Economic trees planted are: (a) Grapevine (b) passion fruit (c) Budded citrus (d) Grafted Mangoes (e) Guava Supreme (f) Cashew (Brazilia Variety) all in 5 Hectares of farmland.

 

 

Professional Charge on Cultivation of Cassava 4 (2) 425 and 30572 varieties on 10 hectares of farmland and 5 hectares of H 1-bred maize over super 1 & 2 service.

 

Consultancy services on preparing of soil chemical analysis, supply of improved Economic tree seedlings, planted, modern irrigation design and supply of Agro-chemicals etc.

 

 

Consultancy services on planting of improved economic tree seedlings and supply of elements of plants, Agro chemicals etc.

 

Consultancy services on supply of 4250 economic cultivation, modern irrigation, design that is pipe control system, assorted vegetables seed and cultivation, improved fruit tree seedlings.

• Grafted mangoes king of fruit
• Budded citrus
• Passion fruit
• Grape – vine
• Guava-Jumbo white
• Paw-paw
• Fig tree
• Eucalyptus tree
• Oil palm

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

31. Alh. Noma’s Farm Kabi – Mangoro Kuje – FCT-Abuja (2011-2013)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

32. Alh. Abdullahi Abubakar Farm Ltd., Gaube Extension, Kuje, Abuja-FCT. (2012-2013)

 

 

 

 

 

 

33. Labaran Maku the Honourable Minister, Ministry of Information and communication, Akwanga Nassarawa State. 11/11/2013.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Pomegranate
• Avocado pear
• Custard and sweet apples
• Agro-chemicals and element of plant supply etc.

 

Consultancy services on supply of economic tree seedlings, grafted mangoe, budded citrus, Grape-vine, Guava-jumbo white, oil palm, custard and sweet apple, Agro-chemicals Consultancy service, visitation on appointment for one year after planting of grape-vine, grafted mangoe, budded citrus, guava jumbo white on routine check of plants visit once monthly of the farm.

 

Consultancy services on supply of economic tree seedlings, grafted mangoe, budded citrus, Guava-jumbo white, oil palm, Agro-chemicals Consultancy service, visitation on appointment for one year after  planting of grape-vine, grafted mangoe, budded citrus, guava jumbo white on routine check of plants visit once monthly of the farm.

 

Consultancy Services On Supply Economic Tree Seedlings, Grafted Mango, Budded Citrus, Guava-Jumbo White, Avocado, Queen Palms Flowers, Satellite Tree, Tujah Flowers, India Lime, Carpet/Port Harcourt Grass Dwarf Ixora Flower, Cycads Palm, Masquerade Flowers, Supply Of Agro Chemicals.