Lemon Farming in Kenya: Guidelines For Planting and Market Opportunities

Lemon farming in Kenya has experienced substantial growth, driven by increasing demand for lemons both domestically and internationally. Lemons are a vital ingredient in many Kenyan households. They are used for culinary purposes, juice production and traditional medicine among other uses. Kenyan lemons are a face of attraction in the global markets due to their vibrant flavor and high vitamin C content. The diverse agro-ecological zones in Kenya have made it suitable for cultivating lemon in all parts of the country making Kenya stand as one of the largest lemon producers in Africa.

Rough Lemon

Climate and soil requirements for lemon cultivation

Lemons thrive in warm climates and require a consistent supply of water for optimal growth. The ideal temperature range for lemon farming is between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius. Regions with well-distributed rainfall of 1000 to 1500mm per year are suitable for lemon farming. However, irrigation is necessary in drier areas to supplement rainfall, particularly during the dry season.

Soil is a critical factor in lemon farming. Lemons just like other plants prefer well-drained soils. They prefer sandy loam soils that have a Ph range of about 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support healthy root development and nutrient absorption.

Lemon farming requires careful planning and implementation of best practices to ensure healthy growth and high yields.

Step by step guidelines for planting lemons.

1.      Site Selection/ Soil preparation

Choose a location that has well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging which can affect your lemon trees by causing root rot. The area should also have a full sun light exposure. Once you have selected a suitable site, conduct a soil test to determine the pH and nutrient levels of the soil. You can then incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to the soil to improve its structure and nutrient content.

2.      Choose the right varieties

Any successful farming begins with choosing suitable varieties of the plant or crop you want to cultivate. In Kenya, several lemon varieties are cultivated, each with its unique characteristics and adaptability to the diverse agro-climatic conditions. Eureka, Lisbon, Meyer and rough lemon varieties are the most popular choices for lemon farmers in Kenya. These varieties thrive well in the country’s tropical and subtropical climates, displaying resilience to various environmental conditions.

v Eureka Lemon

Eureka lemons have a medium to large size with an oval shape and a bright yellow color. They are characterized with a smooth thin skin, minimal seeds and a high juice content that makes them popular for both commercial purposes and home uses.

Eureka lemons are well-suited to areas with warm temperatures and can tolerate a range of soil types. They are generally suitable for planting in various regions in Kenya. Eureka is an early maturing variety that starts to produce from around the 12 month after planting. Its productive throughout the year, making it a consistent source of harvest.

v Lisbon Lemon

They are similar in appearance to Eureka lemons. They have a tangy flavor and soo much juice.

They do well in subtropical climates with well -drained soils that benefit from regular watering. Depending on the amount of care you give to your Lisbon plants, they can be productive throughout the year providing a steady supply for both local consumption and commercial markets. Lisbon lemon variety is known to be resistant to some of the most common citrus diseases.

v Meyer Lemon

This is a hybrid between a lemon and a mandarin orange. Meyer lemons are known to be slightly sweeter than other varieties.

v Rough Lemon

This variety is mainly used as a rootstock for grafting other citruses, but they are also grown for their fruits. This variety is hardy and resistant to drought, making it suitable for arid regions.

Where do I get lemon seedlings from?

Get your ready to plant lemon seedlings from certified nurseries like Richfarm Kenya. Call or whatsapp them at 0724698357/0723213602/0798919007 to make your order.

3.      Planting

During planting, dig holes with dimensions of approximately 1.5ft in depth and 2ft in width. Space the holes at least 10 to 15 feet if planting standard sized lemons and 6 to 8 feet if planting a dwarf sized variety to allow for proper growth. If planting from a seedling, place the tree in the centre of the hole then backfill the hole with the soil which is a mix of topsoil with compost or manure while gently pressing it down to create firmness.

4.      Watering

Once you are done with planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil. Maintain consistent watering, especially during the establishment phase. Drip irrigation is the most efficient method, as it delivers water directly to the root zone and reduces wastage. You can also carry out mulching around the base of the plant to help in retaining moisture and suppressing weeds.

5.      Pruning

Prune the lemon tree to shape it and encourage a strong structure and to allow free air circulation.

6.      Ongoing care

·       Regularly inspect the lemon tree for signs of stress, pests, or diseases.

·       Adjust water based on weather conditions.

·       Provide additional support during heavy fruit-bearing seasons.

Common pests and diseases that attack lemon plants

Lemon farming in Kenya faces several challenges that can affect productivity and profitability. Among them is pests and diseases. Lemons are susceptible to various pests and diseases, such as.

Ø  Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the leaves and stems, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves.

Ø  Citrus thrips: Thrips damage young fruits, causing scars and deformities

Ø  Citrus leaf miner: This pest creates tunnels in the leaves, leading to curling and distortion.

Ø  Citrus Canker: A bacterial disease that causes lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruit. It can be controlled by removing and destroying infected plants parts and applying copper-based fungicides.

Ø  Root rot: Caused by waterlogged conditions. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding over watering.

 Harvesting

Un grafted lemon trees typically start bearing fruits after about 3 to 5 years after planting with the grafted ones taking an year or two to start fruiting. Harvesting can be done when the lemons reach their full size and develop a yellow colour. For varieties like Eureka, Lisbon and rough lemon, harvesting is done when the fruits are fully ripe, while Meyer lemons can be harvested when they are still green. Harvesting of lemons just like other fruits should be done carefully to avoid damaging the fruit.

Market opportunities

Kenyan lemons hold a tremendous market potential with a growing demand for fresh produce and processed citrus products. Export markets in Europe and the Middle East offer lucrative opportunities for farmers, encouraging the adoption of quality assurance measures to meet international standards.

To increase your profitability, you can get in to value addition through the production of lemon juices, essential oils, preservatives, lemon flavoured tea leaves and many other lemon-based products. As a farmer who is looking forward to getting the most out of your lemons, you can explore niche markets such as organic farming, which commands premium prices.

Related links:Lemon Farming in Wajir.