Farmer perception on effects of the witch weed infestations in sorghum in Ishongorero sub county, Ibanda district, south western Uganda
Abstract
197 words
Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench is the fifth most important cereal in the semi arid
regions of the world in terms of production and area planted. However, sorghum production
is constrained by a number of factors including pests and diseases. Witch weed (Striga
spp.) is one of the pests constraining sorghum production in most parts of Uganda including
Isonghorero sub-county in Ibanda district. Therefore, the objective of the study was to
assess farmer perceptions on effects of the witch weed infestations on sorghum in Ishongorero
sub-county. The study was a cross sectional survey. Multi-stage random sampling technique
was used to identify and interview 70 respondents comprising of farmers, opinion leaders,
political and technical leadership of the sub-county. Striga infestation was widespread and
devastating in most of the fields surveyed. The effects of Striga included stunted growth
and reduced yield among others. Different control measures were reportedly employed to
contain the spread of Striga including uprooting and crop rotation/fallowing. Striga weed
was mostly devastating at the pre-flowering stage and exhibited a number of effects including
stunted growth and reduced yields among others. Different control measures were employed
to contain the spread of Striga including uprooting and crop rotation/fallowing.
Subjects
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