2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Rice in Nigeria
Complete guide to growing rice in Nigeria with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from national agricultural research organizations and FAO.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the rice growing season in Nigeria.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
20°C (68°F) minimum
Growing Period
100-140 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
N/A
Tropical climate
First Fall Frost
N/A
No frost risk
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing rice in Nigeria.
January - April
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
May - July
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
August - September
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
October - December
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
Best Rice Varieties for Nigeria
These varieties have proven performance in Nigeria's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | FARO 44 | Nigeria climate |
| 2 | FARO 52 | Nigeria climate |
| 3 | NERICA 1 | Nigeria climate |
| 4 | NERICA 2 | Nigeria climate |
| 5 | WITA 4 | Nigeria climate |
Growing Tips for Nigeria
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Nigeria farmers.
Nigeria is Africa's #1 rice consumer and producer
Rainfed lowland, irrigated, and upland systems all used
Kebbi, Niger, and Ebonyi states are leading producers
Apply 120 kg N/ha in 3 splits for optimal yield
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Stem borers
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Brown planthopper
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Rice blast fungus
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Leaf folder
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Rice bug
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside rice, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
No Frost Risk
Nigeria has a tropical or subtropical climate. Frost is generally not a concern, but altitude-dependent cold spells can occur in some areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant rice in Nigeria?
The optimal planting window for rice in Nigeria is May 15 to July 15. Soil temperature should reach at least 20°C (68°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 100-140 days.
What varieties of rice grow best in Nigeria?
The best varieties for Nigeria include FARO 44, FARO 52, NERICA 1, NERICA 2, WITA 4. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest rice in Nigeria?
The harvest window for rice in Nigeria is typically October 1 to December 31. The crop takes 100-140 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), IITA, and FAO Nigeria. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.