A Comprehensive Guide to Successful Coriander (Dhania) Farming in Kenya

Coriander, locally known as "dhania" in Kenya is a popular herb grown for its leaves and seeds. Dhania has a distinctive aroma and flavour that makes it a favourite among chefs,households and food industries. For farmers, coriander presents a fast-growing,low maintenance crop that thrives in Kenya's climate, offering both small scale and commercial farmers a reliable source of income.

Dhania plants.

Common Dhania varieties grown in Kenya.

In Kenya, several coriander varieties are cultivated to meet the diverse needs of consumers and adapt to different growing conditions. The varieties are selected based on their performance, taste, resistance to common pests and diseases, and sustainability to the Kenyan climate. As a farmer, you will always choose a dhania variety that aligns with your specific growing conditions and market demands. Some of the popular coriander varieties grown in Kenya include:

ü  Leaf cilantro

ü  Seed Coriander

ü  Cilantro

ü  Vietnamese coriander.

 Ideal climatic conditions for the growth of coriander.

It is important that you pay attention to the climatic factors when planning coriander cultivation for a successful harvest. Coriander thrives best in diverse climates. Kenya has a diverse climate that supports an all-year-round growth of dhania.

Temperature: Dhania requires cool to moderate temperatures for optimal growth. Regions such as Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Trans-nzoia, Kiambu, Nyandarua, Murang’a with temperatures ranging between 10 to 25 degrees Celsius are ideal for coriander farming.

Rainfall: Regions with well- distributed rainfall offer excellent growing conditions for coriander.

Sunlight: Adequate sunlight of 6 to 8 hours a day is essential for coriander cultivation. However, coriander also needs some partial shade to prevent it from becoming too bitter.

Altitude: Coriander can be grown in various altitudes, but it is commonly cultivated in low to mid-altitude regions in Kenya. Altitude influences temperature and this means you should consider the specific temperature requirement of the coriander varieties you choose based on the altitude.

Soil requirements for growth of dhania

Coriander can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in loamy sandy soils. Understanding the best soil type for growth of coriander and preparing it accordingly is essential for successful cultivation. The dhania herb thrives in well-drained soils that have a slightly acidic to neutral pH and those that are rich in organic matter. Coriander just like other plants does not do well in poorly drained soils as they lead to root rot.

Step by step process of planting dhania.

Cultivating coriander involves a series of steps from seed sowing to harvesting.

Seed Selection – It is advisable that you choose dhania seeds/seedlings that are of high quality from a reputable source like Richfarm Kenya. Call or whatsapp 0724698357/0723213602 to make your order. Am sure you want to get the best out of your coriander farm so make sure you consider factors such as variety, germination rate, and disease resistance when selecting.

Land preparation- Proper preparation for any activity ensures a success and its not different from the farming context. Prepare your planting space by ensuring the area is free of weeds and debris. You should also ensure the soil is fine to enable seed germination and good plant growth then incorporate well- rotted organic matter such as compost or rotted manure to enhance fertility.

Sowing- Coriander can be grown from seeds or seedlings. If sowing from seeds, directly sow the dhania seeds in the prepared soil. Plant the seeds at a depth of 1-2 centimetres and space them about 5-10cm apart with the rows being spaced 15-20 centimetres apart. It is best to have them planted in rows to facilitate cultivation and harvesting. Deep planting of the seeds should be highly avoided as it may slow germination. Germination of coriander takes about 7-14 days, depending on soil temperature.

Watering- Water the seeds immediately after planting to initiate germination. Throughout the growing season, it is important that you maintain consistent soil moisture as dhania plant requires regular watering while avoiding waterlogging.

Thinning-Once the dhania seedlings germinate, pluck out the overcrowded ones. This process ensures there is a better air circulation and reduces the risks of diseases that may result due to lack of proper circulation.

Fertilization-To maximize on leaf and seed yield, you have to properly feed your dhania plant. You can apply balanced fertilizers during the growing season to provide essential nutrients to your dhania plants.

Pest and Disease Management-Coriander is relatively resistant to many pests, but it's susceptible to, aphids, cutworms and leaf spot disease. Check out for any signs of pest or disease and manage it on time.

Harvesting

Coriander can be harvested for leaves or seeds. Around a month after planting, dhania leaves are  typically ready for harvesting. The leaves have a vibrant green colour and are fully developed.  Dhania are harvested by cutting the outer leaves, leaving the inner leaves for continued growth. Multiple harvests can be made from the same plant every 10-days. Gentle handling during harvesting preserves the quality of the leaves.

For seed harvesting, the plant is allowed to grow and flower so that it produces seeds. The seeds mature in 90-120 days after planting. The seeds are harvested when the seed heads turn brown.

Dhania market- Where do I sell my dhania?

This is the bit that worries every farmer. Where do I sell my dhania harvest?

Dhania has a high demand in both the local and international market due to its being a key ingredient in the global dishes. In Kenya, farmers recognizing the consistent demand ,actively engage in cultivation, with local markets, supermarkets, and restaurants being key distribution channels. The global demand for coriander, especially in European and Middle Eastern markets has also increased,providing farmers with lucrative export opportunities.

                                                                 

Also read: Blackberry Farming in Kenya.                                                                                                 :Fruit farmers getting the most out of their orchads by Cultivating in Healthy Soils.