The Effect of Plant Spacing and Cutting Interval on Growth of Moringa Oleifera

Status and utilisation of Moringa oleifera Lam: A review

“…Besides its nutritional and medicinal value and multiple uses, Moringa improves livelihood security and crop diversification (Gadzirayi et al, 2013), and is of considerable interest for future adaptation of agriculture to climate change (Padulosi et al, 2011). In Niger, Tabbo and Amadou (2017) found that the introduction of M. oleifera into agricultural systems was among the most important adaptation strategies to climate change for farmers among rural households.…”

“…Plantations for leaf production can also be integrated in agroforestry systems with spacing distance of 2-4 m between rows, harvest interval around 60 days, fertilisation and irrigation are not necessary (Leone et al, 2015). Gadzirayi et al (2013) recommended in Zimbabwe 20 cm x 20 cm as plant spacing and 60 and 75 days as harvest intervals according to provenances.…”

“…After pruning, branches develop new pods within 6 months . Regarding the cultivation systems, M. oleifera is cultivated around homesteads, or in association with other vegetables in home gardens, or in association with fruit trees in orchards (Gadzirayi et al, 2013).…”

“…Other insect pests include termites, aphids, leaf miners, whiteflies, and caterpillars (Palada and Chang, 2003). In Zimbabwe, farmers experienced problems with sap sucking insects (red spider mite and aphids), leaf eating insects (caterpillars) and termites (Gadzirayi et al, 2013). Chemical control of insect pests should be used only when severe infestations occur.…”

“…Chemical control of insect pests should be used only when severe infestations occur. Choose a pesticide that targets the specific pest causing the damage, and avoid pesticides that kill or inhibit the development of beneficial organisms (Palada Gadzirayi et al (2013) identified the following constraints in cultivating M. oleifera: lack of knowledge on efficient production practices, competition for land with other food crops, difficulty in the procurement of planting materials, shortage of water for irrigation during dry months, animal damage, low yield levels, theft, pests and diseases, and lack of markets. Regarding the lack of knowledge on efficient production practices, farmers lack efficient cultivation systems which make use of improved models.…”