Abstract

A. A. Akinola and P. Owombo

In addressing the problem of low soil fertility and land degradation occasioned by increased population growth, erosion of soil nutrients and extreme exposure of land to harsh weather conditions resulting in reduced yam yield, mulching technology was adopted by the farmers in Osun State, Nigeria. This study used a multi-stage sampling technique to select 105 farmers involving adopters and non-adopters of mulching technology. Data were analyzed with the aid of descriptive statistics, budgetary techniques and probit model. The results of budgetary analysis showed that seed yam and labour costs constituted significant parts of the variable costs. The average revenue per hectare for adopters was N412, 971.69 while that of non-adopters was N346, 456.75. However, the average net incomes were N326, 865.02 and N236, 087.40 for the adopters and non-adopters, respectively. The benefit-cost ratios were 4.79 and 3.13 for adopters and non-adopters, respectively. The probit model revealed that household size and hired labour were significant factors determining the farmers’ adoption decisions. There is therefore the need to encourage farmers on the needs to adopt the land protecting technology and a policy thrust that make seed yam available and affordable as well as reducing the costs incurred on labour will be in the right direction.