By Ese Ufuoma
The rainy season has always been the heartbeat of Nigerian agriculture. But with changing weather patterns, unpredictable floods, and shifting planting seasons, it’s no longer enough to simply wait for the rain and sow. Today’s farmers need to be smarter and more prepared to face the challenges of climate change.
Climate-smartfarming is the way forward. It means using modern, eco-friendly methods to increase yields, protect the environment, and ensure that farming remains a sustainable source of income. Here are 10 climate-smart tips every Nigerian farmer should follow this rainy season:
- Know Your Rainfall Pattern:
Climate change has made the rainy season less predictable. Don’t rely on guesswork. Check weather forecasts regularly or speak with local agricultural extension officers. Knowing when the rains will start and how long they’ll last helps you plan better.
2. Choose Climate-Resilient Crops:
Opt for crop varieties that can withstand heavy rain or short dry spells. Crops like improved maize, drought-tolerant cassava, early-maturing rice, and flood-resistant vegetables are better suited for the erratic weather.
3. Plant at the Right Time:
Planting too early or too late can ruin a good harvest. Use early rains to prepare your land, but wait for steady rainfall before planting. This reduces the risk of crop failure due to a false start in the rains.
4. Practice Crop Rotation and Intercropping:
Rotating crops and mixing different crops in one field helps maintain soil fertility and prevents pest buildup. For example, alternate legumes with cereals or plant maize alongside pumpkin or beans. This technique boosts your harvest and protects your soil.
5. Use Organic Compost and Mulch:
Instead of relying solely on chemical fertilisers, make your own compost from animal waste, plant residue, and kitchen waste. Add mulch (dry leaves, straw, or grass) to retain soil moisture, prevent erosion, and improve soil structure.
6. Create Drainage Channels
Don’t let your farm flood. Dig small drainage paths around your farmland to control water flow. This protects your crops from waterlogging, which is a common problem during heavy rains.
7. Harvest and Store Rainwater:
Set up simple water collection systems like rain barrels or small ponds. During short dry spells, this water can help you irrigate your crops and keep them alive.
8. Rain can wash away fertilisers if applied at the wrong time. Apply fertilisers when the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Use split application — spread the fertiliser in two or three rounds instead of all at once to reduce waste.
9. Watch for Pests and Diseases:
Rainy weather brings pests like armyworms and diseases like leaf spots. Inspect your farm regularly and act fast if you notice signs of trouble. Use eco-friendly pest control methods where possible.
10. Keep Records and Learn Continuously:
Note the dates you planted, what inputs you used, how much rain you received, and your harvest results. These records help you track what works and make better decisions in the future. Attend training programs, talk to experts, and never stop learning.
A Smarter Way to Farm
The truth is, the rains are no longer what they used to be, but with the right knowledge and attitude, Nigerian farmers can rise above the challenges. Climate-smart farming isn’t complicated; it’s simply farming with sense and science. This rainy season, let every drop of water count. Plant smart, farm wise, and harvest more.