Yam Farming, Harvesting, Storage, and Processing

Yams farming

Yam Farming, Harvesting, Storage, and Processing

Yam farming, harvesting, storage, and processing are integral to Nigeria’s agricultural landscape and food culture. At Queen T Farms, we are a major player in Yam production and processing. Located in the heart of Central Ogun State, Nigeria, where Àmàlà is a local delicacy, we engage in yam farming and processing into yam flour – the major ingredient for preparing Àmàlà.

The Economics of the Yam Value Chain

Nigeria’s yam value chain can significantly boost its GDP. Encompassing processing, packaging, storage, transport, and export, it offers substantial primary and secondary employment opportunities in farming, agro-processing, and logistics. Exporting yams and yam products also promises foreign exchange earnings, potentially making Nigeria a global yam leader and driving sustainable economic development.

From Production to Consumption

Yam farming in Nigeria centers around species like white and yellow yam, thriving in well-drained, loamy soil and a tropical climate. Cultivation involves clearing land and creating mounds or ridges for planting seed yams at the rainy season’s onset. Essential practices include regular weeding, pest management using organic or chemical methods, and mulching to promote optimal growth. Harvesting occurs 8-10 months after planting, indicated by yellowing and drying leaves and vines. Farmers carefully excavate the tubers, sorting them by size and quality, reserving the best for sale or ceremonial purposes and smaller ones for future planting.

Elubo – processed yams for preparing amala

amala

Amala, served with ewedu and beef stew

Post-harvest handling is crucial, with traditional storage methods like barn, heap, and pit storage employed to extend shelf life and prevent losses. Modern cold storage is also gaining traction to further improve efficiency. Beyond fresh consumption, yams are processed into diverse food products, including yam flour (elubo) for amala, pounded yam, fried yams, boiled yams, and yam chips.

Conclusion

By improving techniques across these stages, Nigeria can continue to maximize the value of yams, ensuring food security and boosting economic growth. From the farm to the table, yams remain a symbol of sustenance and tradition for millions of Nigerians.

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