Asian Journal of Plant and Soil Sciences

The quality of soil plays a central role in determining the growth, survival, and overall performance of tea (Camellia sinensis) seedlings. This study examines how soil-based nursery management practices influence both the biological performance of seedlings and the economic outcomes of tea seedling production. The analysis draws on secondary data obtained from published studies, technical manuals, and institutional reports on tea agronomy and nursery operations. Key practices considered include site selection, preparation of potting media, nutrient management, shading, irrigation, and routine nursery maintenance. An enterprise budget for a one-hectare nursery was developed, and profitability was evaluated using standard investment indicators, including Net Present Value (NPV), Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR), and Internal Rate of Return (IRR), under different discount rates. The results indicate that improving soil conditions through the use of organic amendments and appropriate nursery practices enhances seedling vigor, increases survival rates, and reduces input requirements. These improvements contribute to lower production costs and more efficient resource utilization. Economic evaluation further reveals that tea seedling production remains profitable across the scenarios considered, with positive net returns and favorable cost-benefit relationships, reflected in NPV values of ₦75,469,468.19, ₦64,361,238.54, and ₦60,009,828.88 at interest rates of 21%, 27.5%, and 32%, respectively, alongside corresponding BCRs of 20.46, 20.03, and 20.46. In conclusion, these findings underscore the importance of effective soil management and nursery practices in enhancing both the technical and economic performance of tea seedling enterprises, thereby positioning them as a viable option for small-scale producers and broader agribusiness development.