2026 Planting Guide
Fall cropWhen to Plant Wheat in Nigeria
Complete guide to growing wheat 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 wheat growing season in Nigeria.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
15°C (59°F) minimum
Growing Period
100-120 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 wheat in Nigeria.
January - February
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
March - April
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
May - October
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
November - December
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
Best Wheat 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 | Norman | Nigeria climate |
| 2 | Seri M82 | Nigeria climate |
| 3 | Atilla | Nigeria climate |
| 4 | Cettia | Nigeria climate |
Growing Tips for Nigeria
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Nigeria farmers.
Limited to irrigated fields in northern states (Jigawa, Kano, Kebbi)
Dry-season (November-April) crop under irrigation
Nigeria imports 95% of wheat — domestic production is expanding
Lake Chad Basin and Hadejia Valley are emerging wheat zones
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Hessian fly
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Aphids
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Armyworm
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Wheat midge
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Cereal leaf beetle
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside wheat, 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 wheat in Nigeria?
The optimal planting window for wheat in Nigeria is November 1 to December 15. Soil temperature should reach at least 15°C (59°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 100-120 days.
What varieties of wheat grow best in Nigeria?
The best varieties for Nigeria include Norman, Seri M82, Atilla, Cettia. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest wheat in Nigeria?
The harvest window for wheat in Nigeria is typically March 1 to April 15. The crop takes 100-120 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.