We all know the rains are coming to an end and the dry season is fast approaching. For most farmers, this period used to mean a time of waiting for the next rains before planting again. But things have changed. With irrigation systems and proper soil management, the dry season can actually be your most productive time of the year.
If you are a farmer or plan to grow food for commercial purposes, I recommend the following vegetables. These crops thrive with good water management, have quick maturity periods, and are in high demand all year round.
- Fluted Pumpkin (Ugu) Leaves
Fluted pumpkin leaves, popularly called “ugu” in Nigeria, are a staple in many soups and stews, especially in the South. They are valued for their nutrition and also present a viable dry season production option.
Why grow during dry season? These leaves are less affected by excessive rain and many farmers harvest continuously for weeks once established.
Planting time: Early dry season or immediately after the rains end.
Maturity period: About 30 to 40 days after planting for the first harvest, and new leaves continue to sprout afterward.
Irrigation: Light but regular watering helps sustain lush leaf production. Drip irrigation or watering cans are ideal.
Expected yield: 10 to 15 tons of fresh leaves per hectare, depending on management.
Ugu is rich in iron, vitamins A and C, calcium, and other minerals. It helps prevent anemia, strengthens the immune system, and supports healthy skin and eyes.
- Tomatoes
Tomatoes are one of the favourite food crops in Nigeria and they offer great returns if you manage the dry season well.
Why grow during dry season? When rain ends and soil moisture becomes erratic, irrigated tomato production can fill market gaps and guarantee higher prices.
Tomatoes remain one of Nigeria’s most profitable dry season vegetables. They do well when farmers use irrigation and mulch the soil to retain moisture.
Planting time: Early dry season, between October and December, depending on your region.
Maturity period: About 70 to 90 days after transplanting.
Irrigation: Maintain even soil moisture using drip irrigation or furrow systems. Irregular watering can cause fruit cracking, therefore ensure constant irrigation for optimum yield.
Expected yield: 20 to 30 tons per hectare under good management.
Tomatoes are packed with vitamins A and C and the antioxidant lycopene, which helps reduce the risk of heart disease and some cancers. They are used in stews, soups, and salads.
- Cabbage
Cabbage is a cool weather crop, but it performs well in Nigeria’s dry season when atmospheric humidity is low.
Why grow during dry season? Rapid maturity (2 to 3 months) means you can plant in the early dry season and harvest before extreme heat.
Planting time: Early dry season (October to January).
Maturity period: 75 to 90 days after transplanting.
Irrigation: Apply water every two to three days to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching helps reduce evaporation.
Expected yield: Between 11,000 and 15,000 heads per hectare.
Cabbage is rich in sulfur and vitamin C, which detoxify the body and support healthy hair and skin. Its high fiber and low fat content make it perfect for weight control and digestion.
- Onions
Onions are a major dry season crop across Northern Nigeria. They belong to the Allium family and include varieties like red, white, and green onions.
Planting time: Between November and January when the weather is cool and dry.
Maturity period: About 100 to 120 days after sowing.
Irrigation: Provide water once or twice weekly, ensuring that the soil remains moist but not soggy. Reduce watering towards harvest to allow bulbs to harden.
Expected yield: 20 to 25 tons per hectare under proper management.
Onions are packed with antioxidants and vitamins. They help regulate blood sugar, strengthen immunity, and reduce inflammation.
- Ewedu (Jute Leaf)
Ewedu, also known as jute leaf, is a vegetable rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, widely used in Yoruba soups. Some people also blend it and drink it as juice because of its health benefits.
Why grow during dry season? It is a hardy vegetable that can grow in almost any soil type.
Planting time: Throughout the dry season with proper irrigation.
Maturity period: 35 to 45 days after planting.
Irrigation: Frequent light watering encourages tender leaves. Avoid waterlogging.
Expected yield: Around 5 to 8 tons of fresh leaves per hectare.
Ewedu is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is low in calories and supports digestion, weight control, and healthy skin.
- Carrots
Carrots are root vegetables that prefer loose, sandy soil and moderate watering. They can be grown in the dry season to take advantage of reduced rainfall and fewer pest issues.
Why grow during dry season? With fewer rains, root crops can avoid waterlogging and fungal issues, and they fetch good market demand when supply from the rainy season reduces. Carrots are also usually sweeter during the dry season.
Planting time: Early to mid dry season, between November and February.
Maturity period: 70 to 90 days after sowing.
Irrigation: Keep soil evenly moist to prevent roots from cracking. Avoid overwatering.
Expected yield: 15 to 25 tons per hectare.
Carrots are rich in beta carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. They promote good vision, healthy skin, and strong immunity.
- Cucumber
Cucumber is another profitable dry season vegetable. It grows quickly and is best produced under an irrigation system to ensure constant moisture.
Planting time: Early dry season (October to December).
Maturity period: 45 to 55 days after planting.
Irrigation: Use drip irrigation or a soaker hose to keep soil moist but leaves dry to avoid foliar disease. Plant in the early dry season to hit the market when others reduce supply.
Expected yield: 20 to 25 tons per hectare.
Cucumbers are made up of over 90 percent water, which makes them refreshing and hydrating. They contain vitamins K and C and are excellent for maintaining healthy skin and lowering blood pressure.
- Spinach
Spinach is a fast growing leafy vegetable that can be harvested several times during the dry season. It grows best in fertile, well drained soil.
Planting time: Late rainy season to early dry season (September to November).
Maturity period: 30 to 50 days after planting.
Irrigation: Light watering every two to three days keeps the leaves tender and green.
Expected yield: 10 to 12 tons of fresh leaves per hectare.
Spinach is rich in iron, folate, and vitamins A, C, and K. It supports healthy blood, bones, and muscles and is a good source of antioxidants.
Conclusion
Dry season farming in Nigeria offers an excellent opportunity for farmers to earn more income when vegetable prices rise. With proper irrigation and planning, you can produce any of these vegetables successfully.
They grow fast, are highly nutritious, and remain in high demand all year long.
