DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjavs.2026.v13i04.003

Pages: 80-87

This study aimed at determining the productivity of home gardens in Enugu State, Southeastern Nigeria in the second quarter of 2025. Specifically, it determined the socio-economic characteristics of home gardeners, identified dominant crop species, assessed crop densities, and evaluated the costs and returns of home garden production. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed to select 60 home gardens across three Local Government Areas. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and cost–return analysis. Results showed that the mean age of farmers was 42 years, with a higher proportion of females (51.5%) and married individuals (63.6%), Most respondents (74.2%) depended primarily on farming, with an average household size of five people and a modest mean monthly income of ₦118,742.42. Cassava and pepper (17.4% each) emerged as the dominant crops, followed by maize (16.6%) and okra (7.1%), reflecting a preference for staple and adaptable crops. Crop density analysis revealed high intensification of cassava (956 stands), pepper (945 stands), and cocoyam (732 stands), while crops like banana and turmeric were minimally cultivated. The average home garden size was 5,747.7 m². Cost and return analysis indicated that home gardening is profitable, with a total cost of ₦247,690, gross margin of ₦290,810, and net income of ₦186,810, yielding a return on investment of 75%. The findings highlighted the significant role of home gardens in enhancing food availability, income generation, and household resilience. The study recommended that improving access to input, promoting crop diversification, and implementing gender-sensitive and youth-inclusive interventions are essential for home garden productivity.