Assessment of indigenous knowledge on propagation of native trees in the agro-ecological zone of Ghana

Despite the ecological and socio-economic importance of native trees to rural livelihoods in West Africa, indigenous knowledge and scientific validation of their propagation remains poorly documented, especially in northern Ghana. In this study, we assessed local knowledge on the propagation of four key multipurpose native tree species, Adansonia digitata, Parkia biglobosa, Lannea microcarpa, and Bombax costatum, in the Guinean savanna agro-ecological zone of Ghana to inform domestication strategies. From September to October 2022, we conducted fieldwork across 13 communities in the Kassena Nankana municipality, Kumbungu district, and Nandom municipality. We used semi-structured questionnaires to interview 260 respondents (138 males and 122 females) selected through purposive sampling with local leaders. Our results revealed significant variations in propagation knowledge, fruiting perceptions, and perceived tree population trends across locations and age groups. Most respondents relied on seed-based propagation, while few had knowledge of vegetative techniques. Older participants, especially those aged 50–69, demonstrated greater propagation knowledge, particularly for P. biglobosa. Communities reported that fruit maturation varied seasonally and by location. Livestock herbivory emerged as the main constraint to seedling survival, alongside cultural taboos and ecological barriers such as seed dormancy. These findings highlight the importance of integrating indigenous knowledge into tree domestication and conservation strategies. By embedding this knowledge into policy and reforestation initiatives, we can promote more culturally relevant, ecologically sound, and socially inclusive approaches to landscape restoration and rural development.