Economic Profitability and Irrigation Techniques for Pineapple Seedling Production in Togo: An Applied Analysis

This study assesses the feasibility and profitability of irrigated cultivation of high-quality pineapple seedlings in Togo. Research at the Kovié Agronomic Experimentation Station (SEAK) analysed agronomic itineraries, irrigation parameters and yield. Results show that base-seedling production via stem sectioning and commercial-seedling production via castration after floral induction (TIF) are effective. A critical dry period (November–February) necessitates supplementary irrigation, especially in April, for optimal rooting. The borehole's theoretical capacity (108 m³/day) is sufficient, but current pump utilisation (4.5%) limits efficiency. Economic analysis indicates that only perforated-tape irrigation is profitable at a 10% discount rate and a 35 FCFA selling price per seedling