Guide to Beniseed (Sesame) production

(Recommended by the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Compiled by Vincent A. Yusuf )

The following are recommended for beniseed production based on research and experiences from the National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI) Badeggi Niger State and other agricultural research development organisations in Nigeria.

Site selection

Beniseed is adaptable to many types of soils, it does best on well drained fertile soils of loamy texture. The selected site for beniseed production should be fairly flat and well drained loamy or loam soil.

Site clearing

The cut down thrash should be parked to the edge of the farm. Burning should be minimized in order not to destroy some of the essential soil elements and microorganisms.

Soil tillage

Plough and harrow one week after clearing. This will loosen the soil lumps into fine texture, for easy germination and rooting of seedlings. Hoes can also be used to loosen the soil if the farm is small or tractor service is not available.

Beniseed Planting date varieties:

NCRIBEN O1m (530-6-10) matures between 102-115, NCRIBEN-02M, TYPE 4 also takes 102-115 days while NCRIBEN O -3l (Goza-25 ) takes 125-140 days. Yandev -55 takes 125 days while E-8 matures in 90 days.

Beniseed is planted at different times in different ecological zones. The presentation below gives a generalized guide. But adjustments may need to be made depending on when the rains are fully established.