Discover the ultimate resource for gardeners and farmers of all levels with our “How to Grow” category.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned Gardner, our step-by-step guides offer everything you need to grow various plants successfully.
Wild Lettuce (Lactuca virosa) is a tall, leafy biennial plant belonging to the daisy family (Asteraceae). Often called “opium lettuce,” it is not related to narcotics but is valued for its mild sedative and medicinal properties. When cut, the plant exudes a milky latex known as “lactucarium,” traditionally used as a natural remedy for pain,…
Bush or Candle Plant (Senna alata), also called Ringworm Bush, is a perennial shrub native to the tropics and commonly found in West Africa, including Nigeria. It is easily recognised by its bright yellow, candle-like flower spikes that stand upright on the shrub, hence the name “Candle Plant.” The plant grows between 2–4 meters tall…
Girdle pod (Mitracarpus scaber) is a hardy annual herbaceous plant belonging to the Rubiaceae family. It grows naturally in tropical Africa, Central America, and parts of the Caribbean, but is widely found in Nigeria as both a wild weed and a medicinal plant. Despite its modest size, the Girdle pod has earned respect in traditional…
Nigeria has a wide variety of tree species that play important roles in health, the environment, and the economy. Among them, the neem tree (Azadirachta indica) stands out as one of the most valuable. Neem is often called the “village pharmacy” because almost every part of the tree, from the leaves to the bark, seeds,…
Wonder of the World, scientifically known as Bryophyllum pinnatum or Kalanchoe pinnata, is a succulent medicinal plant highly valued in Nigeria and many parts of the world for its healing properties. It belongs to the family Crassulaceae and is popularly known by various names such as “Never Die,” “Life Plant,” “Resurrection Plant,” or “Air Plant.” …
Stone breaker, scientifically known as Phyllanthus niruri and commonly referred to as “Small leaf,” is a small, leafy herb with a long history of use in traditional medicine. The plant is native to tropical regions, including Africa, Asia, and South America, and is well known for its ability to thrive in warm climates. They are…
Nigeria is blessed with vast fertile land and favourable climatic conditions suitable for a wide range of fruit crops. Among these fruits, the Sumo mandarin (also called “dekopon” in Japan, where it originated) is gradually gaining recognition in Nigeria because of its sweet taste, seedless nature, and large fruit size. For farmers and gardeners looking…
Nigeria is blessed with vast agricultural potential, and citrus farming is one of the areas where farmers can earn a good income due to the high demand for fruits locally and abroad. Among the many citrus varieties, Orlando Tangelo has gained attention because of its sweet taste, juiciness, and adaptability to tropical climates. With proper…
Citrus fruits are among the most important fruit crops grown in Nigeria, with varieties like sweet oranges, lemons, and tangerines being widely cultivated. However, one citrus variety that holds untapped potential in Nigeria is the Satsuma mandarin (Citrus unshiu). Originally from Japan, the Satsuma mandarin is highly valued worldwide for its easy-to-peel skin, seedless flesh,…
Citrus fruits are among the most widely grown fruit crops in Nigeria, and each variety offers unique flavours, nutritional benefits, and economic opportunities. Among these is the Calamondin citrus (Citrus × microcarpa), also called calamansi or Philippine lime. Though originally native to Southeast Asia, calamondin have gained global recognition for their versatility, ornamental value, and…