Who discovered cassava?

Who discovered cassava?

Cassava originated from tropical America and was first introduced into Africa in the Congo basin by the Portuguese around 1558. Today, Cassava supports the livelihood of over 300 million Africans.

What plant does cassava come from?

Cassava, (Manihot esculenta), also called manioc, mandioca, or yuca, tuberous edible plant of the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae) from the American tropics.

What is the best way to plant cassava?

Methods of Planting Cassava

1. Horizontal planting. Plant cuttings are buried 5-10cm below the soil surface in dry climates and when mechanical planting is used.
2. Vertical planting. this is done during rainy days so that cuttings will not rot if constantly wet.
3. Inclined planting.

What is the best fertilizer for cassava?

Initially, cassava should be fertilized with equal amounts of N, phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5) and potassium oxide (K2O) at a rate of 500 kg to 800 kg per ha of a compound fertilizer such as 15-15-15 or 16-16-16.

How long does it take for cassava to be harvested?

10-12 months

What is the fertilizer requirement for cassava?

Initially, cassava should be fertilized with about equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. However, if the crop is grown continuously for many years, the N-P-K balance will need to be modified to compensate for the removal of nutrients, especially potassium, in the harvest.

How do you increase cassava yield?

Experiments have shown that cassava yields are seriously reduced if either low rainfall or low temperatures are limiting growth during the period of 3-5 months after planting; that planting vertically or inclined produces higher yields than planting horizontally, especially during periods of drought; that planting on …

Is there money in cassava farming?

Commercial cassava farming has been a very profitable farming venture for Nigerian farmers. Cassava tubers which is in very high demand is the raw material for producing ‘garri’ which is a staple food for the Nigerians. Cassava farming venture is known for its low input- high output nature.

What month is best to plant cassava in Nigeria?

The best time to plant cassava in Nigeria according to general practice is in April, it can, however, be extended to October. Also, planting is done either early in the morning or late afternoons when the sun is cool to prevent excessive heat on the crops.

What is the life cycle of cassava?

The usual life span is 15 to 24 months depending on the cultivar, climate and soil conditions, but later tubers become fibrous and woody. Some quick growing cultivars can be harvested in 6-7 months so you can plant and harvest them twice a year. However, for good yields you must harvest after 9 to 12 months.

Is Cassava annual or perennial?

Although cassava is a perennial crop, the storage roots can be harvested from 6 to 24 months after planting (MAP), depending on cultivar and the growing conditions (El-Sharkawy, 1993).

Why is cassava dangerous?

Cassava may be dangerous if consumed raw, in large amounts or when it is prepared improperly. This is because raw cassava contains chemicals called cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide in the body when consumed ( 21 ).