Abstract:
Homegarden agroforestry is believed to be more diverse both in nature and socioeconomic
benefits. The landholding size decreases as population density increases. The demand for
wide range of goods and services of households are provided through planting a dozen of
plant species in homegarden agroforestry. The objective of the study was to investigate plant
Species composition, diversity and socioeconomic benefits of homegarden agroforestry in
Lemo District, SNNPRS, Ethiopia. Multistage sampling techniques were employed to conduct
the study. A total of 135 homegardens (83 from mid altitude and 52 from highland) were
randomly selected for the study. Complete inventory of homegardens was conducted to assess
every plant species in the homegarden. Socioeconomic data were collected through household
interview. A total of 80 plant species representing 45 families were recorded in the
homegarden in the study area. In comparison more plant species and richness were recorded
in homegarden found in mid altitude. Seventy seven plant species were recorded in
homegardens found in mid altitude compared to 57 plant species in the homegarden found in
the highland. The difference was statistically significant (P=0.026). However, the growth
habits of plants species (trees and herbs) found in homegardens were not statistically
significant difference (p>0.05) except shrubs. The socioeconomic benefit results show that13
major plants use categories were identified in both altitudes. The mean annual income from
the homegarden was 3,103.60Birr in mid altitude and 1,974.67 Birr in the highland. The
difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). Homegarden agroforestry is one form of land
use practice in the study area. Although the nature of homegardens in mid altitude and
highland is more or less similar, there is a difference in terms of the socioeconomic benefits
of the homegarden. Attention should be given to the existing homegarden agroforestry
practices to promote homegarden agroforestry to enhance biodiversity conservation and
improve its socioeconomic benefits.
