Horticultural Nurseries in Urban Landscapes in Sub-Saharan African Cities

Nurseries are a major feature in urban landscapes in Sub-Saharan Africa providing plants for amenity and food and a barometer for the extent of private estate development. However, the nursery industry has not received sufficient recognition for urban transformation and sustainability because it lacks data on its activities. This research was developed to, 1) provide information on nurseries, and 2) determine how nurseries could enhance green infrastructure in urban areas. Data-gathering instruments like a content-validated questionnaire, GPS handset, and digital camera were used to survey 51 nurseries. The analysis of the data using GIS techniques and SPSS statistical software showed that nurseries had no standards to guide their operations, 50% of respondents had only up to basic level education with 84% having up to secondary school education. The average age of respondents was 38±1 with 88.4 % of the nurseries being self-financed, making it a good start-up for the youth. Nurseries were located along major roads without land ownership rights and relied on foreign sources to replenish their plant stocks. Nurseries were small in size averaging 1228.9 m2 but could be given more land to operate to enhance green infrastructure development. Most nurseries (87.5%) depend on unreliable and expensive water sources. These findings could inform policy on the gap in education, the development of nurseries as startups for the youth, and the need for a more sustainable water supply system to enhance agricultural activities in urban areas. The findings can help start discussions on the standardization of nursery operations, the need for the development of indigenous varieties, and why nurseries should be given more space to affect green infrastructure development. The research contributes to knowledge by expanding the knowledge base on nurseries in cities in Sub-Sahara Africa.