Structure and Diversity of Homegarden Agroforestry in Thakurgaon District, Bangladesh

ABSTRACT

The study focused on the composition, structure of homegarden, diversity of plant species and contribution of homegarden to household food security, conservation of plant species, socio-economic importance and the constraints of the total production system. Using a structured questionnaire, formal and informal interviews and field observations collected the information. Some information was also gathered by group discussion with the farmers and the information was analyzed by using descriptive statistics. The homegardensize in average in the study area increased with the size of total land holding. A total of 37 useful plant species were identified from the homegardens in Thakurgaon. Diversity and abundance of fruit tree species were found higher in all farm categories followed by timber and fuel wood species. Total income was found higher in large farm category than that of marginal. Mango and jackfruit were identified as an important cash-growing crop in the study area. Tree management practices and the scopes were very common. The farmer faced many problems during tree plantation and the major cause was the animal. Insect was also another common constraint. The homegardens and its management can be improved by proper management practices, more research, cooperative and extension services.