₦airaland Forum

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*INTRODUCING THE KING OF AVOCADO (HASS AVOCADO VARIETY) AND ITS PECULIARITY*


*DESCRIPTION*

The Hass avocado is known as the king of Avocado. It is a cultivar of avocado with dark green color, bumpy skin.It was first grown and sold by Southern California in the US.

The Hass avocado is a large-sized fruit weighing 200 to 300 grams. When ripe, the skin becomes a dark purplish-black and yields to gentle pressure. When ready to serve, it becomes white-green in the middle part of the inner fruit.

Owing to its taste, size, shelf-life, high growing yield and in some areas, year-round harvesting, the Hass cultivar is the most commercially popular avocado worldwide.

In the United States it accounts for more than 80% of the avocado crop, 95% of the California crop and is the most widely grown avocado in New Zealand.

Hass Avocado prefers good soil and we'll drained , plenty sunlight and cool gentle winds which help the fruit grow.So the tropical climate like ours in Nigeria is very suitable for it. These conditions hold throughout the year, which ensures there are always fresh harvests of Hass avocados .

Grafting of the HASS avocado from the mother tree is very important this is because branches from that tree is used to grow more Hass avocados, rather than planting the seed.

SEEDWORLD LTD supply imported grafted HASS AVOCADO seedlings which matures faster and bears far more fruit than one grown from a Hass seed.

The trees begin bearing fruit from 3 years up and can thrive for decades.Like other fruits, each Hass avocado emerges from a bloom on the tree. A mature tree can produce more than a million flowers during each of its two annual blooms. (Some trees will even flower a third time during the year, an occurrence called an off-bloom.)Only pollinated blooms will produce avocado. That’s why bees play a key role in an avocado orchard.

Pollinated blooms which can range from just 150 to 500 on a Hass tree – take about a year to grow into a ready-to-pick avocado.

*For further enquiries or order placement for imported HASS AVOCADO seedlings do call SEEDWORLD LTD 07082638957 ,Email:seedworldintegratedconceptltd@gmail*

*WHY STAKING OF CRAWLING PLANT LIKE CUCUMBERS ??

One way to improve yield when cultivating vegetables is staking plants. Vegetables benefit a lot from staking and they also grow well. The process can be a little bit tedious but the end result is encouraging. You will see your crops blossoming and producing healthy fruits throughout the growing season. You can improvise and use any type of material you want. The most important thing is that the stakes should be sturdy and driven well into the ground so that they can support the weight of the fruiting plants. At least a foot or more of the stakes can be driven into the ground. Ensure that the support is strong enough to bear the weight of the fruit and can also withstand heavy winds or rain. There are lots of benefits of staking climbers. A little understanding of these benefits will encourage every gardener to consider the system instead of allowing crops to run on the ground.

BENEFITS OF STAKING

*1. Increase in yield*

The most important reason for staking crops is to increase yield. Studies carried out in different locations shows that growing crops vertically increases yield three times than when they are allowed to run on the ground.

*2. Maintain fruit quality*

A healthy fruit without blemishes attracts better price. That’s why gardeners will do anything to prevent their fruits from damages. Damages can occur when fruits are allowed to run on the ground. They are exposed to insect attacks and other creeping things.

*3. Disease-free plants*

Every gardener wish is to make sure their plants are free from diseases. This can be achieved by staking crops rather than allowing them to run on the ground. They can easily contract diseases when allowed to remain and run on the ground. But when they are raised up with stakes, they experience better air circulation which reduces the incidence and spread of diseases.

*4. Exposure to sunlight*

Crops like tomatoes need as much sun as they can possibly get during the day. And for such crops, staking exposes a greater part of the leaves’ surface to sunlight which they need to generate energy and grow well.

*5.Cultivate more crops in limited space*

There is no point looking for an extra piece of land to add to the one you have when you can simply double your yield. Staking allows you to utilize limited space well. There are many reasons to use stakes to grow plants. It makes harvesting, spraying, fertilizer application and watering easier. You can explore the various methods used in staking plants. You can also get creative but make sure the stakes are sturdy enough to support the weight of the fruits as they grow bigger in size.

For pricing and order of staking nets pls contact SEEDWORLD LTD 07082638957,Email : seedworldintegratedconceptltd@gmail.com

Contact SEEDWORLD LTD 07082638957 for your herb seeds or seedlings need .

*With increased dietary diseases you need natural healthy solutions and herbs and spices have been know to be the best plant a few of these in pots,garden or farm for your family or commercial*


1 Apple mint
2 Basil
3 Celery
4 Chamomile
5 Chives praque
6 Chives garlic
7 Chocolate mint
8 Coriander
9 Corsican mint
10 Dill/Fennel
11 English Lavender
12 French lavender
13 Hibiscus
14 Leek
15 lemon balm
16 Lemon grass
17 lemon thyme
18 Lemon verbena
19 Marjoram
20 Orange mint
21 Oregano
22 Parsley
23 Pepper mint
24 Rosella
25 Rosemary
26 Sage
27 Spear mint
28 Spike chives
29 Stevia (alternative sweetener to sugar ,zero calories good for diabetic and cancer patients )
30 Tarragon
31 Thyme
32 Tropical mint
33 garlic
34 ginger
35 turmeric
36 Borage
37 Savory
38 Arugula
39 Spinach Indian Palak
40 Turnip Purple/wite
41 Fenugreek Methi.
42 Artichoke

No dry pepper.

*INTRODUCING THE 30 IN 1 VEGETABLE SEED KIT (PACKAGE)*

All seed packs consist of seed harvested for 2019 and are 99.9% pure with 93-98% germination rates depending on variety.

*Celery*, Utah 52-70 variety - 3,500+ Seeds

*Beans*, Blue Lake 274 variety - 12 Seeds

*Lettuce*, Iceberg variety - 2,400+ Seeds

*Broccoli*, Calabrese variety - 450+ Seeds

*Tomato*, Beefsteak variety - 56 Seeds.

*Cantaloupe*, Hale's Best Jumbo variety - 40 Seeds

*Cauliflower*, Snowball Y Improved variety - 450+ Seeds

*Collards*, Georgia Southern variety - 300+ Seeds

*Carrot*, Scarlet Nantes - 2,500+ Seeds

*Cabbage*, Red Acre variety - 300+ Seeds

*Peas*, Green Arrow variety - 25 Seeds

*Brussels* Sprouts, Long Island Improved - 100 Seeds

*Cucumber*, Boston Pickling variety - 40 Seeds.

*Eggplant*, Black Beauty variety - 175+ Seeds

*Asparagus*, Mary Washington variety - 12 Seeds.

*Melon*, Green Flesh Honeydew variety - 40 Seeds.

*Beet*, Detroit Dark Red variety - 100+ Seeds

*Kale*, Blue Scotch Curled variety - 300+ Seeds

*Onion*, Yellow Sweet Spanish variety - 50 Seeds.

*Pumpkin*, Big Max variety - 4 Seeds.

*Arugula*, Slow Bolt variety - 500+ Seeds

*Corn*, Bilicious variety -10 Seeds.

*Spinach*, Giant Nobel variety - 100+ Seeds

*Squash*, Black Beauty variety - 8 Seeds.

*Radish*, Cherry Belle variety - 100+ Seeds

*Sunflower*, Peredovik variety - 10 Seeds.

*Swiss Chard*, Large White Rib - 40+ Seeds.

*Pepper*, Sweet Yolo Wonder variety - 70 Seeds.

*Watermelon*, Crimson Sweet variety - 12 Seeds.

*Rutabaga*, American Purple Top variety - 450+ Seeds.


*NB* Total is Over 12,500 Seeds.


For pricing and purchase of the full kit pls contact SEEDWORLD LTD 07082638957
Email : seedworldintegratedconceptltd@gmail.com

SEEDWORLD INTEGRATED CONCEPT LTD.

Our Services:

� Orchard And Plantation Establishment

� Sales Of Indigenous Improved Plants

� Sales Of Grafted And Budded Plant Seedlings

� Sales Of Improved Viable Suckers And Cuttings Such as ��

��Budded Citrus seedlings such as (sweet orange, sweet grape, tangelos, shaddock, lemon)

� Sugar loaf pineapple suckers

�Coconut seedlings (hybrid and Dwarf)

�Avocado pear seedlings

�Local pear seedlings (ube)

�Exotic cherry(sweet agbalumo) seedlings

�Local cherry seedlings

�Passion fruit seedlings

�Walnut seedlings

�Brazilian jumbo cashew seedlings

�Bitter kola seedlings

�Sweet berry seedlings(agbayun)

�Bread fruit (pounded yam and groundnut variety) seedlings

�Ogbono/Avenger seedlings

�Dwarf kola seedlings

�Giant elephant plantain suckers

�Cavendish banana suckers

�Smooth Cayenne pineapple suckers

�Ata igbere seedlings

�Sour sop seedlings

�Sugar apple seedlings

�Bell apple seedlings

�Hybrid tenera oil palm seedlings

�Almond fruit seedlings

�Hybrid cocoa seedlings

�Teak seedlings

�Milliner seedlings

�Grafted Mango seedlings

�Bumpers nut seedlings

�Hybrid and dwarf paw paw seeds and seedlings

�Jumbo guava seedlings

�Sugar cane cuttings. etc

For pricing and booking kindly call or (WhatsApp) SEEDWORLD LTD 07082638957.Email : seedworldintegratedconceptltd@gmail.com

Gdday all, contact SEEDWORLD LTD for your dwarf citrus seedlings, such as sweet orange seedlings.

Pics

You can contact us also for local apple seedlings such as the African apple pink in colour and the Malaysian type red skin colour. As shown below.

INTRODUCING THE NEEM TREE (DOGOYARO)

Neem oil has a dual purpose in the vegetable garden as both a pesticide and a fungicide. It works on arthropod pests that often eat your vegetables, including tomato hornworms, corn earworm, aphids and whiteflies. In addition, neem oil also controls common fungi that grow on vegetable plants, including: Mildews.

For purchase of neem seedlings or neem oil contact SEEDWORLD LTD 07082638957

*INTRODUCING SPRING ONION SEEDS*

*Description* :

*Origin* - Thailand

*Quantity* : 1 Pack (1.5 g. / 650 seeds)

*Purity* : 95%

*Germination* : 60% to
80%

*Height* 50cm

*Duration to maturity* 8.weeks

For pricing or purchase contact SEEDWORLD LTD 07082638957.Email:seedworldintegratedconceptltd@gmail.com

*INTRODUCING MULCHING FILMS FOR ENHANCED CROP PRODUCTION*

*DESCRIPTION*

Mulch films are used to modify soil temperature, limit weed growth, prevent moisture loss, and improve crop yield as well as precocity. Because of their thickness, use of pigments and their exposure to high solar irradiation, mulch films require proper light and thermal stabilizers with intermediate chemical resistance.

Plastics mulch films are mainly used for growing fruit and vegetable crops over extensive areas, mulch films offer the following advantages:


*ADVANTAGES OF USING MULCH FILMS*

1. Improved crop quality.

2. Water retention.

3. Minimization of weed spread.

4. Soil temperature control.

5. Soil disinfection before sowing.

6.Reduction in plant root damage.

7.Reduction in soil compaction.


*DIMENSIONS*

*1.4m by 300m* #35,000.
*1.4m by 400m* #50,000.

*Thickness 35microns*

*Available Colour*: Mixture of Black and silver.

*5 to 6 Rolls needed Per Acre Covering*


*Minimum Order Quantity* 10 to 50 rolls.


*For pricing and order placement pls contact SEEDWORLD LTD 07082638957 (Whatsapp) Email: seedworldintegratedconceptltd@gmail.com*

Pics

Key Superior characteristic of Supergene :
 
  - 200% higher than Malaysia national average yield – FFB yield up to 55 tones/hectare/year
  - Earlier harvesting – Starting at 24th month
  - 50% shorter palm height, 25-35 cm growth as against 60 cm normal growth.
  - Higher Oil Extraction Ratio (OER) from Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFB) amount to between 26% to 28%.
 
Supergene : Other SUPERIOR characteristics
 
  - Thin Shell - small Kernel
  - Beta Carotene 1000ppm up
  - Bigger fruits, bigger brunches, and more bunches per tree per year, up to20-26 bunches/tree/year.
  - Longer harvesting period and longer re-planting cycle up to 35-40 years.
  - More tolerant to drought
  - Female : Male ratio in fronds 90:10 , at least DOUBLE the normal ratio.
  - Thicker stem and introgressed with more genetic material, therefore, more diversified in genetic base, and more resistant to fungal disease, ganoderma (basal stem rot)

SEEDLINGS ABOVE.

*INTRODUCING THE CINAMON � TREE*

*DESCRIPTION*

The Cinammon is a native of the western slopes of southern India, Ceylon and Tenasserim, Burma. It is undemanding in soil conditions and the tree has been taken and successfully cultivated in many other countries where there is adequate rainfall.

*Botanical name*: Cinnamomum verum [family LAURACEAE]

*Common names*

*English* cinnamon tree.

*French* Cannellier de Ceylan .

*SIERRA LEONE* : KRIO sinamσn (FCD)

*NIGERIA*: IGBO imeguru (Iwu) ohio (Iwu)

*CINAMON USES*

*(Bark)* Food: sauces, condiments, spices, flavourings .

*(Leaf)* Drink: infusions

*Medicines*: generally healing (bark).

*Medicines*: Pain-killers

*(Bark)* Medicines: arthritis, rheumatism, etc.

*(Bark)* Medicines: naso-pharyngeal affections (bark)

*Medicines*: Stomach troubles (bark)

*Medicines*: Diarrhoea, dysentery (leaf, bark, root)

*Phytochemistry*: Aromatic substances.

*Agri-horticulture*: ornamental, cultivated or partially tended.

*Agri-horticulture*: Hedges, markers
Products.

For pricing, order placement or further enquiries do contact SEEDWORLD LTD 07082638957 .Email : seedworldintegratedconceptltd@gmail.com

*INTRODUCING NEEM OIL PESTICIDES FOR YOUR CROPS*

*DESCRIPTION*

Neem oil has been reputed for its antiseptic, dermatological and dental properties. It is rich in fatty acids and glycerides and together with its healing properties, provides protection for your crops against pest. This oil has also been used for centuries in traditional Indian Medicine to aid in the healing of topical skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, rashes, burns and acne.


*Botanical Name*: Azadirachta indica.

*Extraction Method*: Cold Pressed.

*Processing Type*: Unrefined.

*Obtained From*: Seeds.

*Organic*: Made without chemicals.

*Ingredients*: Neem oil, 100% pure with NO additives added.

*Color*: Yellowish brown to dark greenish brown liquid.

*Aromatic Description*: Neem Oil has a pungent, earthy, green musty smell.

*Common Uses*: For external use only. A magnificent oil with numerous benefits for both as pest control, therapeutic and medicinal use. Among other properties, it is anti-septic, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal. Used widely in creams, dental products, hair care products, and in gardens for natural pest control.


*Consistency* : Neem Oil is very viscous, and it gets solid in the cold. Simply heat it in a hot water bath in order to thin it out.


*MIXING INSTRUCTIONS*:

Mix 70% NEEM OIL and 30% liquid soap or black soap at the rate of 2 tablespoons of neem oil and 1 spoon of liquid soap into 16litres knapsack sprayer with
water. Thoroughly mix solution and spray all plant surfaces (including
undersides of leaves) until completely wet. Frequently mix solution as you spray on depending land size.

*INSECTICIDE/MITICIDE USE*:

*For use on FRUITS, NUTS, VEGETABLES, HERBS, SPICES, ROSES,
HOUSEPLANTS, FLOWERS, TREES and SHRUBS*.

*APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS*:

Apply 70% NEEM OIL at first sign of insects/mites . For control of aphids, spider mites, scale, whiteflies, beetles, leafrollers, and other insect pests. 70% NEEM OIL is most effective when applied every 7 to 14days. For heavy insect populations, spray on a 7 day schedule.

For purchase of cold pressed neem oil pls contact SEEDWORLD LTD 07082638957.Email : seedworldintegratedconceptltd@gmail.com

*OGBONO/AVENGER SEEDLINGS SPECIFICATIONS/CHARACTERISTICS*.

*Origin*: Nigeria

*Variety* : Dwarf type.

*Fruit size*: big

*Time of planting*:early may/june

*Soil requirement*: well drained loam soil

*Planting distance*:7m by7m

*Quantity per hectare Planting*: 204

*Duration of maturity* 5years

Contact SEEDWORLD Ltd 07082638957 for seedlings order placement. Email : seedworldintegratedconceptltd@gmail.com

OGBONOR SEEDLINGS.

#2500

Pics

**HOW TO USE UREA AND OTHER NITROGENOUS FERTILIZERS*


Nitrogenous fertilizers are fertilizer rich in nitrogen, they are very important to crop production; nitrogen is one of the essential nutrient elements needed to enhance crop growth. Application of fertilizers is one of the post-planting operations in crop production. The choice of fertilizer to use is very important. It is very possible you add fertilizer to the soil and in return it impaired the productivity of the soil, thus, resulting in low yield. This is a function of the type of fertilizer used.


There are two types of fertilizer, namely organic and inorganic. The latter is commonly used in commercial cultivation. Though organic fertilizer is the best due to its slow release of nutrients, it is not commonly used.
Nitrogen is very important to plants because it plays an active role in the growth and development of crops. It plays an active role in cell division, which facilitates the growth and repair of damaged plant tissues. Also, it is a very important component of chlorophyll; this gives the plant its green coloration. When deficient in the soil, it greatly reduces yield; especially in leafy vegetables.

When to use Nitrogenous fertilizer in agriculture
Most farmers do not know how to use nitrogenous fertilizers; nitrogen induces the growth of vegetative parts of any crop. Nitrogen boosts the growth of leaves and enhances the rapid growth of the crop.

Nitrogenous fertilizer is best used at the vegetative stage of plants for fruit vegetables like cucumber or throughout the growth stage of plants cultivated solely for their leaves. when the plants are still young and tender; then, they need nitrogen. Nitrogen can be exemplified to protein in the human diet. It is good for younger plants, it helps to build tissues and repair damaged ones.

When you apply nitrogen to young crops, it hastens the growth of the crops and boosts the growth of the vegetative parts. So as the plants grow old, the application of nitrogenous fertilizer should be reduced because nitrogen has the ability to delay maturity and fruition of plants. As the vegetative parts grow, the tendency of the crops attaining maturity reduces.

However, the intent of the production at times may warrant the use of nitrogenous fertilizers throughout the planting period. Nitrogenous fertilizers can be used on crops grown for its vegetative parts alone, like leafy vegetables such as Ugu or Ewedu. It greatly induces the growth of the leaves, thus, increasing yield. It can be used solely on the farm. Examples of common nitrogen fertilizer for plants are Urea, Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN).



Precautions of using nitrogenous fertilizers
Too much of anything is bad, the abundance of Nitrogen causes toxicity. This can impair human health too. the use of nitrogenous fertilizers in agriculture should be used in the right proportion to enhance its efficiency.

Excessive use of nitrogenous fertilizers can pollute the water source through a process known as leaching; this is usually caused by flooding, whereby nutrients like nitrogen are washed down below the water table, hence, depositing the nutrients inside the water body.

in absence of flooding, excessive use of any fertilizer rich in nitrogen can delay fruiting in fruit-bearing crops like cucumber, watermelon, and tomato. Although all crops need nitrogen throughout their life cycle, the requirement for nitrogen decreases as the plant grows.

The maximum amount of nitrogenous fertilizers should be applied at the vegetative stage of he plant, that is before the plant flowers and the minimum quantity of such fertilize should be applied during the fruiting stage of the crop, that is, when the plant begins to bear fruits.

In conclusion,

Before you plant andy crop, try to know the recommended fertilizer application rate and apply it such that more of the nitrogen-based fertilizers are applied during the early stage of the plant and reduce the quantity as the plant grows.

For purchase of quality nitrogenous fertilizers or other types of soluble fertilizers do contact SEEDWORLD LTD 07082638957 Email : seedworldintegratedconceptltd@gmail.com

..

Pics

*INTRODUCING WORM FORCE NEMATICIDE/INSECTICIDE*

*Active Ingredient*
Carbofuran 3 % g.

*Family*
Carbamate.

*Description*

Worm force is Systemic with predominantly contact and stomach broad spectrum insecticide, nematicide.

*Packaging*
1kg / 10 pieces / CTN

For pricing and purchase do contact SEEDWORLD LTD 07082638957.Email : seedworldintegratedconceptltd@gmail.com

We have MALABAR SPINACH seed.

*GROWING GUIDE FOR COCONUT FARMING*

*INTRODUCTION*

Coconut is one of the most important and useful palms in the world,
with Indonesia, Philippines and India respectively ranking as the topmost producers of coconut in the world.


*VARIETIES OF COCONUT*

There have been developments of varieties of coconut which yield 80-100 nuts per palm per year under proper management as against 30-45 nuts from the unimproved coconut.

Below are some of the
varieties prevalent in Nigeria and there yields per relative yields per
year.

1. West African Tall : This variety produces 80-100 nuts/palm/year with
an estimated copra yield of 3.3 metric tons per hectare per year.

2. Dwarf Green: This flowers 3-4 years after yield establishment and
produces 81 nuts/palm/year.

3. Hybrid Coconut: This is a cross between the dwarf variety and the
tall. The hybrid flowers 5 years after planting and produces 94 nuts/
palm/year with an estimated copra yield of 3.5 tonnes/ha/year.

4. Malayan Dwarf Yellow: This variety is used mainly for ornamental
purposes. It is an introduction from Malaysia which flowers 3 years after planting and produces 84 nuts/palm/year with an estimated
copra yield of 2.1 tonnes/ha/year.

5. Malayan Dwarf Red: This is also an introduction from Malaysia. It
flowers about 3 years after field planting and produces 91 nuts/palm/
year with estimated copra yield of 2.3 tonnes/ ha/year. This variety is
also mainly used for ornamental purposes.

*AGRONOMIC PRACTICES /MANAGEMENT OF COCONUT TREE*

1. *LAND PREPARATION*

The selected land should be completely cleared ensuring minimal disturbance of the topsoil layer especially mechanization.

Compacted soils should be ploughed and stumps removed to provide adequate drainage. Land areas with rocks, clayey soils and water logged areas should not be used.

The field borders should be established along with fence lines, access roads, bridges, crossings, main drains, and channels, ponds or wells for irrigation and other infrastructure to ensure proper supply of
moisture.

2. *SOIL REQUIREMENT*

The ideal soil conditions for better growth and performance of the palm
are loose well-drained soils about 50 - 100 cm deep with good water
holding capacity.

However, coconut can be grown under different soil
types such as loamy, lateritic, coastal sandy, alluvial, clayey and
reclaimed soils of marshy lowlands.

3. *PLANTING SEASON/ PROPAGATION*

The coconut is a plant that is largely dependent on the presence and
use of water, hence, the planting is done at the beginning of the rainy
season.

The propagation of coconut is mostly done using seedlings
which are grown and nurtured in a Nursery. The nursery should be
planned with respect to the seasonal changes. Seedlings should be 8 -
10 months of age before transplanting for better growth and development. They are planted immediately or at least 3 days after removal from the nursery to avoid mortality.

4. *TREE SPACING AND PATTERNS FOR COCONUT*

For each planting hole, an area of soil 1m in circumference is cleared
of all vegetation and levelled. In planting the seedlings, the holes
should be dug 0.3 x 0.3 x 0.3m for well fertile soils and in marginal
soils, holes 0.9 x 0.9 x 0.9m are recommended.

When planting, the
planting holes can be dug at least 1 month before planting and filled
with a mixture of topsoil, coconut husks, wood ash and well-decomposed manure which is then allowed to settle.

There are about three major planting space patterns which are;

i. Square pattern,
ii. Triangular pattern and
iii. Single Hedge pattern.

Below are some of the spacing and the yield expectancy for planting in these patterns;


i. For square plantings space, 8m x 8m (156 seedlings/ha),
ii. For triangular plantings space 8.5m x 8.5m (138 seedlings/ha),
iii. For rectangular plantings space 7.3 x 8.5 m (161seedlings/ha)

5. *FERTILIZER APPLICATION*

To ensure efficient growth, the seedling is placed in the hole and
backfilled with topsoil mixed with 30g NPK (20- 10:10).

The seedlings
are handled carefully so that the sprout is not damaged. The nut is
covered with soil mix which is gently pressed into place so that the
central bud and the collar of the shoot is above the soil level.

The surrounding soil around the seedling is raked then the seedlings are irrigated adequately. Irrigation is recommended immediately after
planting. As the plant grows, soil is backfilled to the surrounding soil level.

6. *IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE*

As earlier stated, coconut is dependent largely on the presence of
water, via rainfall or alternative irrigation such as drip system . It is important that rainfall be well distributed throughout the year for optimum coconut production.

Irrigation is necessary to provide sufficient soil moisture during dry
periods and so ensure good growth, development and yield.
An adult palm requires 600 to 800 litres of water once in 4 - 7 days .

During periods of drought, there is high mortality of transplanted
seedlings, shedding of young nuts, drying and hanging down of older
fronds and, failure of young fronds to open. Therefore, irrigation is
highly recommended to avoid these troubles.

7. *WEED CONTROL*

Weeds generally affect the growth and performance of the plant, heavy weed growth makes the collection of fallen nuts a difficult exercise during harvest. For seedling, their pits should be cleared of weeds periodically.

For newly-planted fields, an ideal practice will be to spray herbicide
after lining the fields, in a circle around each peg marking the planting
hole.

This will ensure a weed-free environment even before planting
out, thus giving the plant about 2 - 3 months to properly establish
itself. Failing this, weed control should be done as soon as possible
after planting to avoid weed competition .

8. *PEST /DISEASES*
Some of the prevalent pests and diseases that affect the coconut plant
include,

*For Pest*

The major pest that affects the coconut plant includes:

*Rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros)

*Coconut eriophyid mite (Aceria guerreronis Keifer)

*Red palm mite (Raoiella indica Hirst)

*Red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus Olivier)

*Leaf-eating or black-headed caterpillar (Opisina arenosella)

*Scale insect (Aspidiotus destructor Signoret)

*Coconut mealybug (Nipaecoccus nipae Maskell)

*Note* They are all causal agent to the diseases faced by the plants at respective times and seasons.

*For Diseases*

Some major disease that affects the coconut plant includes:

*Red ring disease.

*Lethal yellowing.

*Bud rot (Heart rot)

9. *HARVESTING*

Coconut is a Perennial crop that produces every single year from its
first fruiting to points of maturity. However it takes about six to ten
years before coconut can start fruiting and producing its nuts.Improved varieties like dwarfs start producing from 3yrs to 4yrs.

Coconuts take about 12 months after pollination to fully ripen to the
dry nut stage. Twelve month old nuts can be harvested for seed.

The mature nuts are harvested when at least one nut in the oldest
bunch starts becoming dry. In Tall varieties, it takes 11 - 12 months
from fruit set for a nut to mature whereas in Dwarfs, nuts will mature
in 10 - 11 months after emergence of the inflorescence.

These nuts can be easily identified when the epicarp of one or two nuts in the bunch starts turning brown. Traditionally, you know the ripe nut by the
sound they make when hit with a harvesting knife, it makes a dull
sound when it’s not ripe and a ringing sound when its ripe.

Harvesting however is done at various points and times with respect to
the used for the nut harvested. Harvest for coconut water is done at
about 9-11 month stage.

For coconut oil, at the 12 - 13 month stage,
the water (liquid endosperm) converts to the white meat (solid
endosperm) lining the inside of the endocarp (shell).

Nuts harvested at
this stage are often dried to produce copra or wet processed to extract
coconut oil. In practice, the harvesting cycle varies from 45 - 60 or 90-
day periods with high copra and oil recovery.

Harvesting too early can
affect the quality of the copra in terms of oil content. There are two common methods of harvesting coconuts; the pole and the climbing methods. Although both the pole and the climbing
methods of harvesting require considerable experience and skill to be
performed safely and efficiently, each has its own advantages and
disadvantages.

Also in many cases, dry nuts are allowed to free-fall and then collected from the ground beneath the trees prior to their processing.

*NB* We have various pictures of coconut types shared from page 7.to 8 on the SEEDWORLD thread.

For purchase of different improved dwarf, hybrid coconut seedlings old contact SEEDWORLD LTD 07082638957(Whatsapp) Email: seedworldintegratedconceptltd@gmail.com

*GROWING GUIDE FOR DRAGON FRUIT*

*DESCRIPTION*

Dragon fruit is an exotic cactus that is found in Asia, Mexico, and parts of South America. It is not grown in North America, that is why the plant is not as common in this region.

Dragon fruit can be planted as ornamental plants, but they do bare delicious fruit that is rather tasty. In fact, it is often used in jams, ice cream, fruit juice, and wine.

The blooms of this plant are unique; in fact, they are one of the largest flowers in the world. The reason that they are so unique is not their size; it is the fact that the blooms only open for one night, and the scents that you will experience on that night are surreal and exotically fruity.

Regardless of the type of dragon fruit that you are growing the fruit will be green until it is ripe. At that time, it will either be bright yellow in coloration or red. The inside pulp of each piece of fruit will be filled will small seeds that look similar to those that can be found in a kiwi fruit.

*DRAGON FRUIT VARIETIES*

The three types of dragon fruit are:

(1) *Hylocereus Megalanthus*

This type of dragon fruit has a white fruit flesh and a yellow shell. The shell of this variation is a bit thornier than the rest of the variations, so it is rarer to see in a garden.

2. *Hylocereus Undatus*

This is a variation that has the same white flesh, but the exterior of this fruit is red in color.

3. *Hylocereus Costaricensis*

This type of fruit is red in coloration on both the shell and in the flesh. The flesh is often a deep red coloration that looks almost unnatural or blood–like.

*TIME OF PLANTING*
The growing season of this plant takes place during the dry season. It will not grow the rest of the year, but when it does grow, it grows rapidly. Bloom will occur from July to October, but they will only bloom for one night each year. After the flowering occurs, fruit will begin to form. One plant can produce fruit for 20 to 30 years, so if you plant one, be ready for a lot of dragon fruit.

*SOIL REQUIREMENT*
This plant is able to grow in any soil that is well draining, but it prefers to grow in soil that is slightly acidic with a pH level that is between six and seven. Sandy soil is the best option for this plant; if it is not available, just ensure that it is well draining soil.

*SITE SELECTION*
Dragon fruit must be planted in an open field with direct exposure to sunlight. It is not conducive to plant the crop in areas where rainfall is well distributed. Site should be free
draining with a sandy loam soil with a high organic content.

*LAND PREPARATION*

Farmland for planting dragon must be well cleared and destump. Rows are mounded to 300mm, poles should be no more than 2m long with 600mm in the ground. Poles can be anything from concrete to PVC, (but treated timber should be avoided) with a frame attached to the top to allow the plant to hang down.

*PROPAGATION*
Dragon Fruit is propagated through seeds or cuttings. From seeds, it grow well in a compost or potting soil mix – even as a potted indoor plant.

Dragon fruit (Pitaya) cacti usually germinate between 11 and 14 days after shallow planting. As they are cacti, overwatering is a concern for home growers.

As their growth continues, these climbing plants will find something to climb on, which can involve putting aerial roots down from the branches in addition to the basal roots. Once the plant reaches a mature 10 pounds in weight, the plant may flower.

From the cuttings, plant them in plastic bags for two months and transfer them in an open field. Cuttings can be purchased from some local commercial nurseries and pitaya growers. Seedlings can be purchased for commercial production.


*TRANSPLANT/SPACING*

Dragon fruit growers recommend 3 meter (approximately 10 feet)
spacing between each plants .This distance between plant gives
enough space for you to do maintenance, watering and harvesting. Of course if you plan to use machines (tractors) in your planting then adjust the spacing accordingly.

*OTHER MAINTENANCE PRACTICES*

*FERTILIZER APPLICATION*

A combination of organic and complete fertilizer like Urea (46-0-0) is recommended. Use more organic and more nitrogen. The ideal is to apply fertilizer every 3 months if possible or every six months. Use 2 kg of organic + 25g urea + 75g complete fertilizer per plant.

*IRRIGATION* Water daily through the dry season at a volume of 80L/day, regular organic mulching is strongly recommended. Water stress can cause fruit splitting; slow shoot development, yellowing and flower drop.

*PRUNNING*
Regular prunning them to obtain an open, manageable, and productive umbrella shape canopy. Also, it is important to prune right after harvesting the fruits. Regular pruning will induce new shoots for the next cropping season.

*PEST/DISEASES*

*Pests*: Meat ants, ginger ants, and birds have been recorded as causing serious damage to plants and fruit. Plants will need some form of netting to prevent bird damage to fruit. Applicable chemicals can also be used.

*Diseases*: A soft watery rot can occur after damage such as sunburn.

*HARVESTING*

After establishing the plant in the field, it would take around 26 months to bear fruits. Harvest must be done 35-40 days after the flower opening.

For purchase of dragon fruit seedlings and all other seedlings; pls contact SEEDWORLD LTD 07082638957(Whatsapp) Email: seedworldintegratedconceptltd@gmail.com

*GROWING GUIDE FOR CITRUS(Oranges,Tangerine,Grape,Tangelo,Lemon ,Lime etc.)*

Citrus is most commonly thought of as a good source of vitamin C. Citrus fruits also contain an impressive list of other essential nutrients, including both glycaemic and non-glycaemic carbohydrate (sugars and fibre), potassium, folate, calcium, thiamine, niacin, vitamin B6, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, riboflavin, pantothenic acid and a variety of phytochemicals.

In addition, citrus contains no fat or sodium and being a plant food, no cholesterol. The average energy value of fresh citrus is also low which can be very important for consumers concerned about putting on excess body weight.

For example a medium orange contains 60 to 80 kcal (Energy) ; a grapefruit 90 kcal and a tablespoon (15 ml) of lemon juice only 4 kcal .

Let us see some medicinal benefits of some citrus like grapes and Orange below:

*Medicinal benefits of grapefruits*

•Grapefruits are an excellent source of vitamin A, an essential vitamin that helps promote healthy vision.

•Grapefruit as Liver Cleanser . Grapefruit contains a number of liver detoxifying and cleansing agents, among them are various antioxidants and phyto-nutrients called limonoids that help to excrete toxic waste from the liver by making them more water soluble.

•Grapefruit for Gum Problems: Eating two grapefruits a day helps to reduce gum bleeding. It also increases plasma vitamin C levels and helps to manage periodontal disease.

•Grapefruit for Respiratory Problems: Vitamin C has been proven in numerous studies to lessen respiratory issues and prevent asthma. It also reduces wheezing symptoms in children and aids in treating asthma, chronic cough, shortness of breath and even runny nose. The presence of several vitamin and minerals in grapefruit also helps to boost immunity and lessens the duration of cold.


*COMMON CITRUS VARIETIES/SPECIES*

Citrus consists of many species, some of which are not even edible. Some varieties of the edible ones have however been recommended to farmers.

These include:

*Species* *Varieties*

1. *Sweet Orange* � Hamlin, Valencia, Agege Parson,brown,washington, etc.

2. *Grapefruit*. � Durean, Marsh, Ruby Red, etc.

3. *Tangerine*. � Dancy, Algerian, Clementine, etc.

4. *Tangelo* �Lake, Minneola, etc.

5. *Lemon* �Lisbon, Eureka, etc.

6. *Lime* � Key, West Indian.


*GROWING PRACTICES AND MANAGEMENT OF CITRUS TREES*

1. *SITE SELECTION /LAND PREPARATION*

Sandy loam is best for the cultivation of Citrus. The most important factor in the choice of site is free/drainage of water. Soils with an underlying hardpan of about 1m or less to the top mock soils, or slain sites are not suitable.

Apart from these, citrus can be grown on a wide range of soil types. Citrus is not shade loving, therefore clear the site of all tree stumps and plough before setting in the plants.

2. *PROPAGATION METHOD*

Citrus is almost entirely propagated by budding. Plant only budded seedlings in orchards as unbudded seedlings may not be true-to-type, and often takes a long time to fruit.

They are also susceptible to disease attack.Buy budded seedlings for transplanting.Make sure the budded seedlings are obtained from a reputable source.Budded citrus will start fruiting at 2yrs plus .SEEDWORLD LTD will supply you quality planting materials like budded citrus seedlings.


3. *TRANSPLANTING OF CITRUS SEEDLINGS TO THE FIELD*

Plant the orchard or seedlings when the rainy season has fully set in. In the southern part of Nigeria ; this is around May, but about June in the north.

Prepare planting holes well in advance, before purchasing the budded seedlings. These holes should be 25 cm x 18 cm and 7m x 7m apart in either direction. Set the trees in these holes (which have been half–filled with rich topsoil) and shovel in back the soil firmly around the trees. Always ensure that the trees are planted no deeper than they had grown in the nursery bags.Care must be taken not to tamper the root system.


*INTERCROPPING OF CITRUS*

Spacing of citrus (7m x 7m) is relatively wide and allows for considerable land to remain unproductive for some years while no income is obtained from citrus.

At least for the first 2 to 3 years before citrus trees start fruiting the wide inter-row spaces can be cropped to compatible field crops such as pine-apple, water melon, egusi melon, cowpeas, okro, soya, sweet potato etc.

The recommended doses of fertilizer dressing for each of these crops should be used. Adopt effective pest/disease management. This practice maximizes land utilization & control to farmers before citrus trees start fruiting.


*MANAGEMENT OF YOUNG CITRUS TREES AFTER TRANSPLANTING*

1. *IRRIGATION*

Citrus trees will wilt and yield will be depressed unless moisture is provided during the long dry season of November to February. Therefore, make sure that the trees are watered during this period.

An alternative is to water manually at least 10 liters of water (stream water, well water, tap water, etc.) delivered at the base of the trees twice a week is sufficient for good development and yield. Drip irrigation system can also be installed during this period to provide sufficient water for each tree during this period.

2. *MANURE /FERTILIZATION*

*NOTE ON FERTILIZER*

Fertilizers is usually applied when there are signs of deficiency in the young tree.Do not apply any organic fertilizer at planting or during the 1st year of planting in the orchard.

Apply the following recommendation a year after transplant. Apply in a shallow furrow around the trees (corresponding to the drip-margin of the canopy).

(a) *2–4 years of age* 500 grams of compound fertilizer N.P.K (15:15:15) per trees, twice in the year.


(b) 5–10 years of age: 2 kg (15:15:15) + 600 grams pottassium per tree, twice in the year.

(c) *10 years and above*:

3kg (NPK 15:15:15) + 800 grams pottasium per tree, twice in the year.These applications should be done in June and September to obtain maxi-mum benefit.

3. *WEED CONTROL*

Absolute weed control under a hot, humid climate may be very expensive, nevertheless there is need for some level of weed control. Slash the orchard at least 3 times in the year, the last being at the on-set of the dry season. In addition, ring weed individual trees constantly. Ring-apply Diuron herbicide check weed growth.

4. *INSECT PEST/FUNGAL DISEASE CONTROL*

The control of insect pests on citrus depends on the stage of development. Nursery pests are mostly leaf-eating insects like caterpillars and plant ‘bud’. Control the caterpillar with an appropriate insecticide at the rate of 0.9–1.00 Liters E.C. formulation in 300 Liters of water per hectare. The fruit fly, fruit piercing moth, and ‘bud’ control can be achieved through effective intergrated approach with close supervision by experts.

*FUNGAL DISEASE CONTROL*
There are two major disease of citrus. A group affects leaves, stem and roots. The others are fruit diseases which originate from the field and continue at storage.

Some of these diseases are twig or branch dieback, foot rot and Brown rot gummosis and blast. Control the fungal diseases by applying Z force 20g/ 10L water on the trees with any wetting agent.

You can curtail fruit anthracnose and Phytophthora rot by applying either Thiabendazone at 10ml/ 10L water . In case of Gummosis, Scab and Root rot attack, seek the advice of crop protection experts for appropriate treatment .

5. *PRUNNING*

Prune citrus trees occasionally. They don't require heavy or regular pruning. Remove any "suckers", or shoots growing from the rootstock. Citrus trees are budded, meaning that a tree with desirable fruit is cut and attached to a sturdier rootstock. You don't want the rootstock taking over.

Remove any "wild" shoots growing beyond the general shape of the tree. These will often be long, straight, quick-growing branches that don't follow the overall form or shape of the tree.

Moderately thin the foliage if it grows excessively dense, to promote air circulation and availability of light.
Generally, train citrus trees as shrubs or hedges. If you'd like to remove a few lower branches to give it more of a tree shape, go ahead, but don't overdo it.


6. *HARVESTING*

Harvest fruit when it is fully ripe. Oranges, lemons, and grapefruit should all be completely free of green coloring. They will not ripen off the tree. Limes are generally picked green, so go by size .

For purchase of budded citrus seedlings ,do contact SEEDWORLD LTD 07082638957 (whatsapp) Email : seedworldintegratedconceptltd@gmail.com