Faculty
Year of Publication
upload
Publication Type
Abstract
Home gardens, whether in rural or urban areas, are structurally complex and multifunctional, providing numerous benefits to ecosystems and local communities. This study was carried out to investigate the diversity, ethnobotanical significance, and socio-economic impact of home gardens in Ovia North East Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria. The research focused on three communities Ekosodin, Oluku and Ekiadolor, selected for their active gardening practices and
plant diversity. A total of fifteen (15) home gardens, five from each community, were purposively chosen based on species richness and community involvement. Data collection involved field observations, oral interviews, and structured questionnaires administered to gardeners and community elders. Focus group discussions were conducted to gather insights on plant types, gardening practices, and socio-economic benefits. A total of thirty-five (35) plant species were
identified across the communities, with Ekiadolor exhibiting the highest diversity (33 species), followed by Oluku (27 species) and Ekosodin (22 species). Key plant species such as Vernonia amygdalina, Dioscorea spp., Talinum triangulare, Ocimum gratissimum, Solanum lycopersicum and Capsicum annuum were prevalent, indicating the significance of home gardens for food security and traditional medicine. The study revealed that home gardens play a critical role in providing medicinal plants used to treat common ailments, enhancing household nutrition, and
serving as a source of income. Challenges such as pest infestations, poor soil fertility, and water scarcity were highlighted, with recommendations for integrated pest management. This study underscores the importance of home gardens in conserving biodiversity, promoting traditional health practices, and supporting sustainable livelihoods
plant diversity. A total of fifteen (15) home gardens, five from each community, were purposively chosen based on species richness and community involvement. Data collection involved field observations, oral interviews, and structured questionnaires administered to gardeners and community elders. Focus group discussions were conducted to gather insights on plant types, gardening practices, and socio-economic benefits. A total of thirty-five (35) plant species were
identified across the communities, with Ekiadolor exhibiting the highest diversity (33 species), followed by Oluku (27 species) and Ekosodin (22 species). Key plant species such as Vernonia amygdalina, Dioscorea spp., Talinum triangulare, Ocimum gratissimum, Solanum lycopersicum and Capsicum annuum were prevalent, indicating the significance of home gardens for food security and traditional medicine. The study revealed that home gardens play a critical role in providing medicinal plants used to treat common ailments, enhancing household nutrition, and
serving as a source of income. Challenges such as pest infestations, poor soil fertility, and water scarcity were highlighted, with recommendations for integrated pest management. This study underscores the importance of home gardens in conserving biodiversity, promoting traditional health practices, and supporting sustainable livelihoods
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor