HOMEGARDEN PLANT DIVERSITY, THEIR USE AND MANAGEMENT PRACTICE IN GETA WOREDA, GURAGE ZONE OF SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

The study was conducted with an objective to assess the homegarden plant diversity, their use and the local management practices in Geta woreda. To achieve the objectives of the study four study sites were purposively selected based on the extensive presence of homegardens and altitudinal variation. From these study kebeles, totally 72 homegardens were selected randomly. The data were collected by using Semi-structured interview, Focus group discussion, field observation and market survey. Plant Diversity and similarity of species among homegardens were analyzed and compared using Shannon Weiner Index(H’), Sorenson`s Index of similarity and Jaccard similarity coefficient. A total of 88 known useful homegarden plants in 72 genera and 36 families were collected. Fabaceae was the most dominant family with eleven species. Herbs were the dominant growth form while trees were the least. Eskut kebele has the highest species richness (76) and diversity (H’= 3.88) with very small species evenness values (E=0.0087). A relatively very higher number plant species used as medicine (33 species) followed by food (30 species). Eucalyptus globules were highly exploited plant species since it has many purposes. Brassica carinata was found to be the most desirable food item that had highest market utility followed by Solanum tuberosum and Hordeum vulgare. The species diversity and richness in the study area was challenged by several factors like demographic characteristics, less access to seedlings, lack of water access, disease and pest, lack of follow up from Agricultural experts, land size, and less access to market and main road access. Finally, to increase the productivity of home garden government should distribute quality seeds/seedlings to the farmers. To avoid and diminish plant diseases and pest, the government is expected to provide, encourage dealers to present pesticides, herbicides and fungicides seasonally.