Black Nightshade Farming in Kenya: A Complete Guide

 Black nightshade (Solanum nigrum) is a popular leafy vegetable in Kenya, commonly known as “managu” or “osuga”. It is a highly nutritious leafy vegetable that has gained popularity due to its health benefits and relatively easy cultivation. Managu is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, Iron and Calcium.

Black Nightshade(Managu)

Climate and soil requirements for managu farming.

Black nightshade thrives in a warm climate with moderate rainfall, ideally between 600mm to 1200mm annually. The crop grows well in temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. It prefers well-drained loamy soils rich in organic matter, with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5

How profitable is managu farming in Kenya?

This is a question that is likely to bother any farmer or any person looking forward to venture into managu farming for commercial purposes. Managu farming in Kenya is proving to be a profitable venture for many farmers, largely due to the high demand for this nutritious leafy vegetable. Market demand for managu remains robust, particularly in urban areas like Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Kisumu and Eldoret. Farmers can sell their produce directly to wholesale buyers or at local markets, with prices per kilo ranging from ksh30 to ksh50 depending on the season and quality. The cost of managu production is relatively low with the basic requirements being seeds, fertilizers and labour. Managu is resilient and requires minimal maintenance compared to other crops, making it cost-effective to cultivate. In overall, managu farming offers a significant return on investment due to its low input cost and high market demand. With proper management and market research, farmers can achieve substantial profitability from this crop.

 Step by step process for planting managu

Planting black nightshade in Kenya involves several steps, from soil preparation to harvesting.

                        i.         Soil preparation

This step involves two major processes, one being soil testing and the other land preparation. Soil testing involves conducting a test to determine pH and nutrient levels. Managu thrives in soils with a pH of 5.8 to 6.6

Once the soil tests of the area are positive or they have been adjusted accordingly, you begin to plough and harrow the soil to create a fine tilth. You can apply well-composted manure about two weeks before planting.

                      ii.         Seed selection and nursery Preparation

In seed selection, use certified seeds to ensure diseases-free plants. In the case where you want to purchase ready to plant seedlings, make sure to get them from certified nurseries like Richfarm Kenya. You can contact them on 0724698357/0723213602 to place your order.

For those who choose to propagate the seeds themselves, you can use seeding trays, or you can germinate them from a nursery bed. When doing a nursery bed preparation, you prepare a seedbed by digging, levelling, and mixing the soil with well-rotted compost. Make shallow drills 10-20cm apart and sow the seeds, then cover them lightly with soil. Once they have germinated, water regularly and thin the seedlings after about 4-7 days. The seedlings are ready for transplanting when they reach a height of about 10-15cm and when their stems look strong enough.

                     iii.         Transplanting

When transplanting, use a spacing of 30cm by 10cm. Once you have transplanted, ensure adequate irrigation until the seedlings are well established.

                     iv.         Irrigation

Drip irrigation is ideal for efficient water use. Overhead irrigation can also be used but it may increase fungal diseases risk. Regular watering should be practised to maintain soil moisture, especially during dry periods to avoid waterlogging which can lead to root rot.

                       v.         Harvesting

Harvesting of managu leaves begins about 6-8weeks after planting. Tender leaves are picked by hand. It is important to ensure a consistent harvest so as to encourage new growth and also prolong the productive period.

Common pests and diseases that affect managu plants

Aphids- They cause curling, yellowing and distortion of leaves. They also give a symptom of sticky honeydew on leaves.

Spider mites- Common symptoms are stippling and yellowing of leaves, webbing on the underside of leaves.

Caterpillars- They cause holes in the leaves and defoliation.

White flies- It causes yellowing of leaves and the presence of sooty mold that is often caused by honeydew secretion.

Leaf miners- Common symptoms are irregular, winding trails on leaves.

Powdery mildew- Common symptoms are white powdery spots on leaves, leading to leaf curling and distortion.

Leaf spot- It causes brown, black or yellow spots on leaves leading to leaf drop.

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