Reasons you need to consider backyard farming

Farmers generally engage in farming in rural areas due to the availability of land, cost-effectiveness, proximity to natural resources and favourable climate conditions.

In the past, it was uncommon for households to engage in farming or planting crops within the premises of their homes due to challenges such as limited land, water scarcity, pests and disease

However, these days, some urban residents are also growing various plants in their backyards or within their premises to feed their families and even supply to their neighbours. Furthermore, when the crops are too abundant for their own consumption, they sell the surplus.

What is the secret behind farming in the home premises or backyard?

Enoch Tyilen, a resident of Jos East LGA of Plateau State engage in urban farming, explaining that such system assists the family, especially now that the economy of the country is not favourable.

“I plant some crops at the backyard to feed my family. Crops such okra, tomato, and pepper among others are planted here. Sometimes, when you get up in the morning and you don’t have what to prepare, you can come to the farm and fetch what is available to prepare your soup.

“It is very easy to come behind the house and it is very fresh and rich. There is no preservative to it. It is natural from the ground. There is also that contentment that you are eating something you grew yourself. By and large, you get it free of charge.

Thomas Gofwan and Afiya Gofwan, a husband and wife, have been growing various types of crops, including pepper, okra, yam, and sweet potato, in recent years. They explain what they grow and why they choose to farm within their compound.

“We have been planting a variety of crops and this has been helpful to the family. I have some spices for brewing tea and for cooking jollof rice. I have been enjoying it,” Afiya said.

For Thomas, “Since we came to this house, some 15 years ago, we have utilised the available space. We have been planting some crops to feed the family. It has been helpful to us to the extent that we don’t go out for some of the crops.

“Sometimes, if you go to the market, you don’t get fresh crops like the ones we have in the house. Friends and relations come for them. It is good for people to engage in urban farming,” he said.

What are the challenges of urban farming?  

Mrs. Gofwan said, “My major challenge here is infection. Sometimes, the plants will just turn red and sometimes turn black and before you know it, they are destroyed. But I do fumigate them.

“I was told to be fumigating them from time to time. Fertiliser would have been another challenge but I have rams in the compound. I pick from their droppings and apply on the farm.”

Homestead farming involves growing plants, fruits and vegetables in the surroundings of a house for domestic use. With the current economic situation in the country, residents are encouraged to embrace this system to ensure food security and nutrition.