How to Plant Ofor (Detarium microcarpum)
Ofor, botanically known as Detarium microcarpum, is a remarkable indigenous tree that holds both nutritional and economic value across many parts of Nigeria and West Africa.
Commonly called the sweet detar or simply “ofor,” its seeds are widely used as a thickener for traditional soups, adding a unique taste and texture cherished in local cuisine.
Beyond its culinary appeal, the Ofor tree is valued for its medicinal properties, its role in agroforestry systems, and its resilience in the face of harsh climatic conditions.
This guide provides a step-by-step approach to planting Ofor, covering everything from choosing the right location and preparing the land to planting, caring for the young trees, and managing pests and diseases.
Description of Ofor (Detarium microcarpum) tree
Ofor (Detarium microcarpum) is a small to medium-sized tree belonging to the family Fabaceae.
It is indigenous to West and Central Africa, thriving naturally in the savannah regions.
In Nigeria, it is particularly valued for its edible seeds, known locally as “ofor,” which are ground into a fine powder used as a soup thickener.
The tree can grow up to 15 meters tall, with a broad crown and rough greyish-brown bark.
It produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that develop into hard, round, brown fruits.
Inside the fruit is a hard seed which contains the nutrient-rich kernel.
Besides its culinary use, different parts of the plant have medicinal applications, making it an economically important indigenous species.
Planting season for Ofor (Detarium microcarpum) in Nigeria
Ofor is best planted at the onset of the rainy season, usually between April and June in most parts of Nigeria. This timing ensures that the young seedlings receive adequate moisture for germination and early growth, reducing the need for artificial watering.
Planting Ofor (Detarium microcarpum)
Step 1 – Choose a location
Select a site that receives full sunlight, as Detarium microcarpum thrives best under direct sunlight.
The soil should be well-drained, sandy or loamy, and not prone to waterlogging.
The tree is hardy and can tolerate poor soils, but it performs better in moderately fertile ground.
If you’re planting several trees, ensure spacing of 8-10 meters apart, as Ofor trees develop broad canopies.
Step 2 – Land clearing and preparation
Clear the land of existing vegetation, stumps, and debris.
For small-scale planting, you can manually remove weeds and grasses.
For larger farms, controlled bush burning (where allowed by local regulations) may be used, followed by ploughing or digging to loosen the soil.
Dig planting holes about 30 cm wide and 30 cm deep. This helps loosen the soil for the young roots to penetrate easily.
Step 3 – Means of propagation
Ofor is mainly propagated by seeds, though propagation by seedlings grown in nurseries is also common.
- Direct seeding: Seeds are sown directly into the field.
- Transplanting seedlings: Seeds are first raised in nurseries or polythene bags for about 3-6 months, then transplanted to the field.
Raising seedlings is generally preferred as it improves survival rates and allows you to select vigorous young plants.
Step 4 – How to plant Ofor (Detarium microcarpum) from seed
- Seed preparation: The seeds have a very hard coat. To enhance germination, soak them in hot water (about 80°C) for 10 minutes, or in cold water for 24-48 hours. This softens the seed coat and speeds up sprouting.
- Planting: Place 1-2 seeds per hole or per pot in the nursery. Cover lightly with soil and mulch to conserve moisture.
- Germination: Seeds generally germinate in 2-4 weeks under good conditions.
- Transplanting: If starting in a nursery, transplant seedlings when they reach 20-30 cm in height. Transplant during the rainy season to reduce transplant shock.
Step 5 – Watering
During the first 3-4 months, regular watering is crucial, especially if rainfall is inconsistent.
Water at least twice a week, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Once established, Ofor is drought-tolerant and can survive with minimal watering.
Step 6 – Apply manure
To encourage strong growth, incorporate well-rotted farmyard manure or compost into each planting hole before planting.
After transplanting, apply a light top-dressing of compost or organic manure once or twice during the growing season.
This improves soil fertility and promotes healthy root and canopy development.
Maturity and harvest
Ofor trees are relatively slow-growing and begin to bear fruit from 5-7 years after planting.
The fruits mature and fall to the ground, where they are collected, typically during the dry season (December to March).
Harvest involves gathering fallen fruits, cracking them open to extract the seeds, then drying and storing them.
Proper drying is essential to prevent mould.
Pests and diseases
Ofor is quite hardy, but some pests and diseases can affect it:
- Termites may attack young seedlings or roots.
- Beetles and borers can infest the trunk and branches.
- Leaf spot fungi may cause premature leaf drop.
Pest and disease control
- For termites, treat the planting hole with wood ash or neem extract before planting.
- Mulching helps keep the base moist and discourages pests.
- Regular inspection allows early detection of beetle or borer holes. Prune and burn infested branches.
- To control leaf spot, remove and destroy affected leaves and apply neem-based or mild fungicidal sprays if infestation is high.
Practising good farm hygiene, such as clearing fallen debris and weeds, also reduces pest habitats.
Conclusion
Planting Ofor (Detarium microcarpum) in Nigeria is a rewarding investment, both for its culinary and medicinal benefits.
By carefully selecting a site, preparing the land, using proper propagation methods,
and maintaining good watering and manure practices, you can establish a productive Ofor plantation.
With patience through the early years and consistent management of pests and diseases, the Ofor tree will reward you with valuable harvests for many decades.
Hope this article was helpful.
