Knowledge and Practice of Home Gardening Among Residents inSelected Communities of Makurdi North Central-Nigeria
Keywords:
Home gardening, Knowledge, Prractices, Challenges, Urban farmers, MakurdiAbstract
Home gardening is a proven system of ensuring food security, raising income for households, and also contributing to
environmental sustainability. This community-based study assessed the practice of home gardening among homeowners
in Makurdi town. The majority of the respondents were aged 40 and above (64.4%), were predominantly female (80.8%),
most were married (76.9%), and all had tertiary education. 88.5% lived in urban areas. The study found that the majority
of Makurdi's residents are familiar with home gardening, while the remainder are not. Sources of information on home
gardening included family (68.18%), friends (22.7%), and the internet (9.09%). Access to fresh vegetables and fruits
(96.2%), saving cost on groceries (76.9%), physical exercise (80.8%), food security (96.2%), mental health (61.5%) and
environmental benefits (76.9%) were identified as benefits of home gardening. 76.9% of the respondents owned home
gardens. The study concludes that although some challenges exist, home gardening remains a significant practice with
multiple benefits. Awareness Campaigns are therefore recommended to be carried out to help residents of Makurdi to see
home gardening as a key strategy for achieving household food security.
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